6. An Encounter

Oxen never know how much one is hurried. The wagon advanced too slowly to suit Maroussia; their leisurely steps quickened a little in the midst of the steppe, at the command of their little friend, but they did not go very fast. Their march was cheered by the tranquil light of the last stars, the daylight was just breaking. They could smell the delicious perfume of the flowers.

All was calm; from time to time a gunshot, a call, intended to keep the sentinels on the watch, could be heard plainer still for this great silence. That was to be expected. But every little unexpected noise made Maroussia tremble. How many times the slight murmur of the breeze made all her blood rush to her heart? Ah! It was not for herself she trembled so easily. For what only concerned herself, her little soul was very resolute. Her vigilance was for him. Suddenly she said:

“Hide yourself well! Someone is coming!”

This time they were surely coming. Very soon a detachment of Russian soldiers surrounded the wagon.

“Where are you going? Whence do you come? Who are you? ” cried many hoarse voices.

“I am the daughter of Danilo Tchabane,” Maroussia answered.

“Stop your oxen!” an officer called to her. She stopped them.

“Whence do you come?”

“I come from home.”

“Where is your home?”

“Not very far in that direction.”

“Where are you going?”

“I am going to Knich’s house.”

“Who is Knich?”

“He is a friend of my father. He bought this hay of us and I am taking it to him.”

“What did I tell you, my friend? It is a peasant’s wagon, nothing more. But you see traitors and escaped prisoners everywhere.”

“Do you believe there are none? Is the galloping that you have just done such a great affair?”