In the grounds, what first met Vronsky's eyes were the soldier-singers in their white linen uniforms, standing beside a cask of vodka, then the jolly, healthy figure of the C.O. surrounded by his officers. Having come out on the top step of the verandah, he was gesticulating and above the noise of the band (which was playing a quadrille of Offenbach's) was loudly giving orders to some soldiers who were standing somewhat apart.
Los reunidos estaban en el amplio mirador del piso bajo. Lo primero que atrajo la atención de Vronsky al entrar en el patio fueron los cantores militares vistiendo sus uniformes blancos de verano, todos de pie junto a un pequeño barril de aguardiente, y, con ellos, la figura sana y alegre del coronel del regimiento rodeado de los oficiales.