Anna Mikhaylovna, stooping, quickly caught up the object of contention and ran into the bedroom.

The eldest princess and Prince Vasili, recovering themselves, followed her.

A few minutes later the eldest sister came out with a pale hard face, again biting her underlip.

At sight of Pierre her expression showed an irrepressible hatred.

"Yes, now you may be glad!" said she; "this is what you have been waiting for.