War and Peace Volume 1 Book 1 Chapter 16

In which Pierre returns to his father's house in Moscow to a chilly reception amidst whispered gossip and strained family relationships, whilst pondering political ambitions and an unexpected invitation. Therein, he encounters a young officer whose frankness and sincerity stir a rare warmth in Pierre’s otherwise solitary existence, whilst the household wearies under the shadow of illness and anxious anticipation.