she added. ‘Only Ustenka is at work there, wearing herself out.’

‘What can you expect of them?’ said the old man proudly.

‘Here, have a drink, Maryanka dear!’ said the old woman, passing the jug to the girl.

‘God willing we’ll have enough to pay for the wedding feast,’ she added.

‘That’s not yet awhile,’ said the cornet with a slight frown.

The girl hung her head.

‘Why shouldn’t we mention it?’ said the old woman. ‘The affair is settled, and the time is drawing near too.’

‘Don’t make plans beforehand,’ said the cornet.