Matrena. I'm so afraid Father will be hurt!
Sascha [with scorn]. Hurt, Matrena! Of course he won't be hurt. Hasn't he always hunted wolves, every winter? But that's the way with you and Kolinka. I tell you I'm not afraid. I only wish I were older and bigger—then I could have gone, too. It's very slow to have to stay at home and take care of you girls. [Yawns and stretches.]
Marie [turning indignantly]. Indeed, Sascha, it wouldn't be slow at all if you would do something beside lie up there on the stove and sleep. Here's the bowl you began to carve a month ago, not finished yet. Just come down now, and do it.
Sascha. Oh, no! I like this better. And you know you would rather have me stay up here and tell you the news. [Teasingly.]
Kolinka. News, indeed! What news can you have to tell, I should like to know?
Sascha [triumphantly]. Just this. That the great castle up on the hill has been thrown open once more.
Marie [surprised]. Has it? Why?
Kolinka. I don't believe it.
Sascha. It's true, though. Our father the Czar has pardoned the Baron, and he has come back from Siberia.