War and Peace Volume 2 Book 8 Chapter 3

In which the sombre atmosphere of Prince Nicholas Bolkónski’s house on his name day is permeated by his fierce suspicion and commanding presence, especially towards the charming French doctor Métivier, whose visit provokes the prince’s wrath and a sharp estrangement from his daughter Princess Mary. As a select group of distinguished guests gather for dinner, their solemn discourse quietly reflects the uneasy political tensions besetting the nation and the old prince’s stern views on the looming conflict with Napoleon.