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Friend of my heart, how are you? he said, through the singing, making his horse keep pace with the marching soldiers. How am I? Dolohov answered coldly. As you see. The lively song gave a peculiar flavour to the tone of free-and-easy gaiety, with which Zherkov spoke, and the studied coldness of Dolohovs replies. Well, how do you get on with your officers? asked Zherkov. All right; theyre good fellows. How did you manage to poke yourself on to the staff? I was attached; Im on duty. They were silent. From my right sleeve I set him free, said the song, arousing an involuntary sensation of courage and cheerfulness. Their conversation would most likely have been different, if they had not been talking while the song was singing. Is it true, the Austrians have been beaten? asked Dolohov. Devil knows; they say so. Im glad, Dolohov made a brief, sharp reply, as was required to fit in with the tune. I say, come round to us some evening; well have a game of faro, said Zherkov. Is money so plentiful among you? Do come. I cant; Ive sworn not to. I wont drink or play till Im promoted. Well, but in the first action Then we shall see. Again they paused. You come, if you want anything; one can always be of use on the staff. Dolohov grinned. Dont trouble yourself. What I want, Im not going to ask for; I take it for myself. Oh, well, I only Well, and I only. Good-bye. Good-bye. To his own country. Zherkov put spurs to his horse, which three times picked up its legs excitedly, not knowing which to start from, then galloped off round the company, and overtook the carriage, keeping time too to the song. |
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