He handed Pierre two of the six remaining pistols, told him to run to the floor above and watch the window.

The young peasant crossed himself and turned away.

He found the room easily enough.

It was impossible to barricade the window, but he drew back in the darkness and waited.
Having found no one in the grove beyond the baggage-wagons, the Russians called for another volunteer and a second man offered.

Pierre heard him coming, permitted him to gain the ledge and then thrust the pistol in his face and pulled the trigger.