Afterwards I wished I had allowed the Streltsi to take the fool, for, though I fear not the open assault of men, it is different to know that there is a mad and furious woman at large who may rush out upon one at any moment. Such knowledge is apt to make a coward of a brave man.
Soon after this a message reached me from Vera Kurbatof. It was written, and I spelled it out with difficulty, being but a moderate gramatny or scholar. The message ran, ‘I am in danger again; come at noon to-morrow.’
This message filled me with joy, for I longed hourly to see the maiden. Never up to this day had woman taken such hold upon my heart; all other loves of my life had been but surface scratches, but this time I was sore wounded. I was in that foolish state when there is no rest except the beloved is at hand.
I went disguised; for, since I was to be denied admittance in my own name, it was useless, I thought, to attempt it or to force it. Therefore I borrowed the dress of a Raznóschick, a fellow who carries a covered tray of cakes for sale. Such dealers are admitted, I knew, into the apartments of the ladies, who buy largely of their wares.
I spoke with the doorkeeper, bidding him obtain for me the permission of the Barishnya to enter the ladies’ quarter with my cakes, since she and her women were old customers of mine.
The man parleyed, and there was talking and arguing, and in the midst a man entered from the street behind me. I took no notice, being intent upon obtaining access to Vera, parleying and quarrelling with the doorkeeper.
Suddenly the new arrival placed his arms tightly round my own from behind, so that—being both held by him and hampered by my cake-tray, I could not move.
‘A Raznóschick’s dress does not conceal Chelminsky’s voice,’ said one, whose tone I recognised in a moment for Mazeppa’s. ‘I have thee, my friend, at last. Go quickly, you porter, and fetch others to help. Shout for them to come!—this is a rascal in disguise, a cut-throat, a robber; be sure he’s come for no good!’
With a cry of horror the doorkeeper flung himself to the end of the hall, where he rang a bell and shouted names. I struggled, but could obtain no purchase for my efforts, which were useless.
Four or five men were quickly upon the scene. Mazeppa addressed them with authority.