She knew his father to be a connection of Prince Vasili's.

The elderly lady who had been sitting with the old aunt rose hurriedly and overtook Prince Vasili in the anteroom.

All the affectation of interest she had assumed had left her kindly and tear-worn face and it now expressed only anxiety and fear.
"How about my son Boris, Prince ?" said she, hurrying after him into the anteroom.

"I can't remain any longer in Petersburg.

Tell me what news I may take back to my poor boy." Although Prince Vasili listened reluctantly and not very politely to the elderly lady, even betraying some impatience, she gave him an ingratiating and appealing smile, and took his hand that he might not go away.
"What would it cost you to say a word to the Emperor, and then he would be transferred to the Guards at once ?" said she.
"Believe me, Princess, I am ready to do all I can," answered Prince Vasili, "but it is difficult for me to ask the Emperor.