Chapter 170 — Anna Karenina

The sportsman's saying proves true: because Levin did not miss the first bird at dawn, the day stays lucky. At ten o'clock, weary and hungry after twenty miles, he returns with nineteen head of fine game plus a duck on his belt. He counts twice while Stiva's envy gratifies him, and Kitty's messenger waits with a note: I am perfectly well and happy; midwife Marya Vlasyevna found all well; stay another day if sport is good.

Two irritations barely dent the joy: the overworked chestnut horse and, worse, Veslovsky's appetite has devoured every provision. Levin dreams of meat pies then learns there are none, no chicken, and Philip says the beef's been eaten with bones given to the dogs. He nearly cries from hunger, tells Philip to cover game with nettles, then laughs at his mortification after milk. Evening shooting gives Veslovsky successes; the drive home sings with vodka peasants, kiss in the ring, and a warning not to chase other men's wives.

Veslovsky says altogether I've enjoyed our outing awfully; Levin answers he has very much, sincerely rid of home hostility toward the guest. Triumph, letter, and shared return complete the arc from jealousy through marsh shame to friendship.