War and Peace, Book 13: 1812, Chapter 4 summary
Book 13: 1812, Chapter 4 of 365 · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Kutúzov signs orders for an attack on October fifth, but the officer delivering them spends the day searching for Ermólov. He finally finds him at a ball, and a staff comrade claims that Ermólov deliberately disappears to cause trouble for Konovnítsyn.
What happens
- Bennigsen’s note and a Cossack’s report about the exposed French flank provide the final reasons for ordering an attack.
- Kutúzov signs the orders, and Toll asks Ermólov to arrange their execution, but Ermólov leaves.
- A young Horse Guards officer searches the camp for Ermólov until evening without finding him.
- The officer follows news of a ball to Échkino, where the chief generals gather for music and dancing.
- Ermólov silently accepts the papers, and a staff comrade claims his absence is a deliberate move against Konovnítsyn.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The claim gives the delay a possible political motive. It remains the comrade’s accusation, not an established explanation.
Quick check
Where does the officer finally find Ermólov?
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