"Well, of course, of course!" The regimental commander sought out Dolokhov in the ranks and, reining in his horse, said to him: "After the next affair... epaulettes.

" Dolokhov looked round but did not say anything, nor did the mocking smile on his lips change.

"Well, that's all right," continued the regimental commander.

" A cup of vodka for the men from me," he added so that the soldiers could hear.

" I thank you all! God be praised!" and he rode past that company and overtook the next one.