Julia.
But his turnips!--They always thrive!--And then----?
Pierre.
Then a strange thing occurred that I can't help worrying about. Suddenly mamma said to him, "Something very peculiar is happening on our estate this year. Now I can see from where I sit that the whole place is one mass of roses. And yet, if at any time I ask for a few more than usual, there are none to be had!"
Julia.
Why, you must have been shaking in your boots! Did you do anything to betray us?
Pierre.
Oh, I think I know how to take care of myself!--But suddenly he grew absolutely rigid--as if--as if he had been reflecting. He acted like a man who sleeps with his eyes open. Mamma asked him a question three times, and he never answered a word!
Julia.
I say, did you come here to frighten me?