What then should I say, if I dared complain, I who am deprived of all who are dear to me?
Ah, if we had not religion to console us life would be very sad.

Why do you suppose that I should look severely on your affection for that young man?
On such matters I am only severe with myself.

I understand such feelings in others, and if never having felt them I cannot approve of them, neither do I condemn them.

Only it seems to me that Christian love, love of one's neighbor, love of one's enemy, is worthier, sweeter, and better than the feelings which the beautiful eyes of a young man can inspire in a romantic and loving young girl like yourself.
The news of Count Bezukhov's death reached us before your letter and my father was much affected by it.

He says the count was the last representative but one of the great century, and that it is his own turn now, but that he will do all he can to let his turn come as late as possible.