He makes merry out there in the army too! The other day our Kirka came home; he says: "What a horse Lukashka's got in exchange!" But all the same I expect he frets after you.

And what else did he say ?' 'Must you know everything ?' said Maryanka laughing.

'One night he came to my window tipsy, and asked me to let him in.' 'And you didn't let him ?' 'Let him, indeed! Once I have said a thing I keep to it firm as a rock,' answered Maryanka seriously.
'A fine fellow! If he wanted her, no girl would refuse him.' 'Well, let him go to the others,' replied Maryanka proudly.
'You don't pity him ?' 'I do pity him, but I'll have no nonsense.

It is wrong.' Ustenka suddenly dropped her head on her friend's breast, seized hold of her, and shook with smothered laughter.

'You silly fool!' she exclaimed, quite out of breath.