War and Peace Volume 3 Book 9 Chapter 21

In which young Pétya, full of patriotic zeal and youthful longing, endeavours to present himself at the Emperor’s arrival in Moscow, only to be swept and bruised by the throng of a jubilant crowd, yet remains undeterred in his desire to serve his country. Throughout the day’s grand spectacle and the Emperor’s gracious presence, Pétya is moved by a fervent mixture of admiration, hope, and resolute determination that colours the moment with the earnest enthusiasm of youth.