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Having learned all these facts, the princess found nothing to

object to in her daughter's intimacy with Varenka, more

especially as Varenka's breeding and education were of the

best-she spoke French and English extremely well-and what was of

the most weight, brought a message from Madame Stahl expressing

her regret that she was prevented by her ill health from making

the acquaintance of the princess.

After getting to know Varenka, Kitty became more and more

fascinated by her friend, and every day she discovered new

virtues in her.

The princess, hearing that Varenka had a good voice, asked her to

come and sing to them in the evening.