"And you understand what is being a judge?"
"Yes, it is what you were!"
"Well then, lift up your right hand and swear to me that never in your life you will offer yourself for the judgeship, nor accept it if they ask you. Will you do that, and never forget?"
"I will, and will not forget it," cried the little boy, earnestly lifting up his childish hand.
And Taras kissed him and returned to his work.
But Father Leo, on learning of the new insult offered to his friend, expressed his hearty sympathy.
"There is no need to trouble about it," said Taras; "you see I am quiet."
"And so you have every right to be!" cried the pope, warmly. "Have you not always done your duty, ay, and a great deal more! If sorrow is your part now, you can accept it with a strong heart, as of God Himself. He has been gracious to you, bringing you to this village and blessing you abundantly; and if He now chastises you, it surely is for your good in the end. The ways of God sometimes are dark."
Taras shook his head. "I don't believe that," he said, curtly.
"Not believe in God?" cried the honest pope, aghast.