Along comes bouncing a light blue Austrian carriage escorted by Croatian horsemen, which is appropriate for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It is time for the inspection of the newly arrived regiment. 

Out steps General Kutuzov along with his unnamed Austrian counterpart. As Kutuzov walks the line, he is pleased with the disposition of his troops. He notices the atrocious state of their boots, which the Austrians should have replaced. He points this out...diplomatically. 

Kutuzov graciously stops to speak with a few soldiers, some of whom he recognizes from past engagements. One is Captain Timohin, who Kutuzuv served with during the infamous Siege of Izmail (or Ismail) in 1790.  This reference points out Kutuzov’s experience in major conflicts. The siege was historically important as Izmail was a fortress at the center of an oblast (province) once controlled by the Ottomans. Thought impregnable, when the Russians breached the walls, the Muslim population was massacred.

Kutuzov addressed Timohin out of respect -- but it made his red-nosed comrade nervous. Thus, Kutuzov made the reunion brief. He later inquired how Timohin was performing to one of the commanders, while making clear his old friend was a good man. Kutuzov, in a jovial mode, noted how Timohin once had a prediction for Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and exultation. He opined how "we all have our little weaknesses."  Kutuzov is portrayed as having great respect for those he served with as well as being forgiving of imperfections.  

Close to Kutuzov was Andrei Bolkonsky, who reminded the General to address Dolokhov. Kutuzov informs Dolokhov that he can regain his office if he proves his worth. Dolokhov is thankful for the opportunity. Unlike Timohin, Dolokhov was not nervous and his demeanor breached the veneer of the deferential relationship. 

Overall, the inspection was looked upon as a success and the men were put at ease once Kutuzov left. One of the commanders ordered the soldiers be provided a round of Vodka. The group joked, insulted one another and engaged in soldierly banter. Some wondered when they would enter the fight. One pointed out that while Kutuzov had only eye (historically untrue), he could “see” more than most. A drummer struck up a tune that enabled those motivated to sing a military anthem praising Kutuzov. It was formerly a melody that would motivate soldiers to fight the Ottomans, now it was serving the same purpose against the French.

Then Zherkov, an old acquaintance of Dolokhov, approached Dolokhov. Zherkov did this upon noticing Dolokhov was singled out by the high commander. Once upon a time they both ran with the same wild set in St. Petersburg. Zherkov is now a musician for a Hussar regiment. Dolokhov knew the approach was only due to him being singled out - and remained distant. He refused Zherkov's invitation to play cards as he swore it off - for the time being.