'Really I felt so dull all the time without you, I swear I did,'
he said in a calm, restrained whisper, helping himself to some
seeds out of the bosom of the girl's smock, and stooping still
closer over her he continued with laughing eyes to talk to her in
low tones.

'I won't come, I tell you,' Maryanka suddenly said aloud, leaning
away from him.

'No really ... what I wanted to say to you, ...' whispered Lukashka.
'By the Heavens! Do come!'

Maryanka shook her head, but did so with a smile.

'Nursey Maryanka! Hallo Nursey! Mammy is calling! Supper time!'
shouted Maryanka's little brother, running towards the group.

'I'm coming,' replied the girl. 'Go, my dear, go alone--I'll come
in a minute.'

Lukashka rose and raised his cap.

'I expect I had better go home too, that will be best,' he said,
trying to appear unconcerned but hardly able to repress a smile,
and he disappeared behind the corner of the house.

Meanwhile night had entirely enveloped the village. Bright stars
were scattered over the dark sky. The streets became dark and
empty. Nazarka remained with the women on the earth-bank and their
laughter was still heard, but Lukashka, having slowly moved away