Instead, she slanders—cruel words all—

‘Useless this bride as rotten tree!’”

XIII

In the green garden is fresh-fallen snow;

Horses are galloping to and fro.

A mother follows the hoof-marks deep:

“My Marusenka, where dost thou sleep?

“Help me, O Lord, her steps to trace!

Home I would take her from this place.

“Come, Marusenka, come to me!