Princess. I see her—it's the old woman who led us out of the forest!
Sascha. It's the Babushka!
Kolinka. Perhaps she will come in. Let's be very quiet.
Matrena. Let's sing—the Babushka loves our carols.
[Children sing softly the carol of the Birds.
Enter Babushka, very quietly. Lays her
hand on Pavlo's, then on Nicolas' head,
and gazes earnestly at them.
[Kneels by cradle, bending over the baby, and
kisses it. Rises, stands watching the children
a moment, then glides silently out.
Children see her pass window, then the
song ceases.
Princess [suddenly springing up]. Oh, Dimitri, why didn't we beg the Babushka to take us home to the castle? Our Father and Mother will be so terribly frightened when we don't come back!
Prince [hurrying to door]. Perhaps it isn't too late.
Sascha [catching his arm, and standing before the door]. No, no! you couldn't catch her.
Kolinka. And you mustn't go out in the cold again.