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She tried to pass Anna Mikhaylovna, but the latter sprang so as

to bar her path.

"I know, my dear, kind princess," said Anna Mikhaylovna, seizing

the portfolio so firmly that it was plain she would not let go

easily. "Dear princess, I beg and implore you, have some pity on

him! Je vous en conjure..."

The princess did not reply. Their efforts in the struggle for the

portfolio were the only sounds audible, but it was evident that

if the princess did speak, her words would not be flattering to

Anna Mikhaylovna. Though the latter held on tenaciously, her

voice lost none of its honeyed firmness and softness.

"Pierre, my dear, come here. I think he will not be out of place

in a family consultation; is it not so, Prince?"