“Although I descend from a powerful Vladyka
And am now at least the Tsar’s favorite knight,
Nevertheless I cannot even testify my love to thee
Nor exchange words with thee through sweet, sweet glances.
“It is as though a mighty fortress was separating us
So fearfully high and immobile,
And my humble glance does not dare to penetrate
E’en to the grand old royal window.
“In love, however, I am thy slave, O dear princess,
I am quite able to pick up a quarrel with the king,