I ran to him, crying,
'Oh, save us! Protect us!'

"'What's wrong? Call the Elder!'
And then, in an instant,
The matter is settled: 320
'The shepherd is tiny--
His youth and his folly
May well be forgiven.
The woman's presumption
You'll punish severely!'

"'Oh, Barin, God bless you!'
I danced with delight!
'Fedotka is safe now!
Run home, quick, Fedotka.'

"'Your will shall be done, sir,' 330
The Elder said, bowing;
'Now, woman, prepare;
You can dance later on!'

"A gossip then whispered,
'Fall down at the feet
Of the Elder--beg mercy!'

"'Fedotka--go home!'

"Then I kissed him, and told him:
'Remember, Fedotka,