“Alack! Tattiana,” she replied,

      “We never loved in days of old,

      My mother-in-law who lately died[31]

      Had killed me had the like been told.”

      “How came you then to wed a man?” —

      “Why, as God ordered! My Ivan

      Was younger than myself, my light,

      For I myself was thirteen quite;[32]

      The matchmaker a fortnight sped,

      Her suit before my parents pressing:

      At last my father gave his blessing,

      And bitter tears of fright I shed.

      Weeping they loosed my tresses long[33]

      And led me off to church with song.”

      “Then amongst strangers I was left —

      But I perceive thou dost not heed – ”

      “Alas! dear nurse, my heart is cleft,

      Mortally sick I am indeed.

      Behold, my sobs I scarce restrain – ”

      “My darling child, thou art in pain. —

      The Lord deliver her and save!

      Tell me at once what wilt thou have?

      I’ll sprinkle thee with holy water. —

      How thy hands burn!” – “Dear nurse, I’m well.

      I am – in love – you know – don’t tell!”

      “The Lord be with thee, O my daughter!” —

      And the old nurse a brief prayer said

      And crossed with trembling hand the maid.

      “I am in love,” her whispers tell

      The aged woman in her woe:

      “My heart’s delight, thou art not well.” —