4. A Story of Brigands

“I know a story of brigands which made me think of it,” answered the little girl. “I recalled to my mind how the brigand’s wife escaped in the story, and I said to myself: ‘ We will do the same thing.’”

“Since we have a long walk before we reach the stable in the steppe, you will tell me the story on the way, will you not?”

“I shall be glad to. But do you wish to go to Tchigurine? Shall I take you there?” “Certainly,” he answered. “But will your father approve of my accepting you as a guide? Will he scold you afterwards?”

“It is because of my father that I do so. Father looked at me, I understood him. His eyes said to me: ‘For this man you must leave everything, even us.’”

Very well, then; yes, I commit myself to you, little one; you shall lead me, and on the way, you can relate to me your story. Let us go, Maroussia, I am listening already. I like stories of brigands very much.”

They took each other by the hand and regained the bank of the river. After a moment, as the child was still silent:

“I am all ears,” said he, “but I hear nothing yet.”

“Oh!” she answered, “I cannot tell the story just now.”

“Why not now, my little girl?”

“We are not far enough from the soldiers; I am listening for them. I am a little afraid, I fear that we—it would cause me so much pain if I did not succeed in leading you to the place where you can do good.”

“We must do our best, whatever happens, my little friend. We go trusting in God, and under His protection, my child.”

She raised her head and looked at him. Even by the uncertain light of the stars she saw so much confidence and courage on his face that she felt reassured.

“Don’t let me wait any longer, Maroussia, I see that you don’t know how much. I like stories.”

Maroussia began:

“Once upon a time, a Cossack married his daughter to a handsome young man.”

“He did well! Your story begins well, if the husband was a good fellow,” said the Envoy.

Instead of answering, Maroussia shook her head from right to left and continued:

“The young girl did not have much affection for her betrothed. He was handsome, but he did not seem kind to her, Nevertheless, as her father was strongly in favor of the marriage, she obeyed, and was married to him. As soon as the wedding was over the husband took his young wife home, very far, oh, very far away.”