But tie yourself up with a woman and, like a chained convict, you lose all freedom! And all you have of hope and strength merely weighs you down and torments you with regret.

Drawing rooms, gossip, balls, vanity, and triviality--these are the enchanted circle I cannot escape from.

I am now going to the war, the greatest war there ever was, and I know nothing and am fit for nothing.

I am very amiable and have a caustic wit," continued Prince Andrew, "and at Anna Pavlovna's they listen to me.