War and Peace Volume 3 Book 9 Chapter 20

In which the household of the Rostóvs is alive with the mingled strains of music and talk of war, illustrating the spirited yet anxious temper of a noble family poised on the brink of upheaval. Pierre's visit reveals the tender complexities of affection and duty, as youthful hopes and sober realities entwine amid the pressing call to arms that stirs them all.