Page:The Kobzar of the Ukraine.pdf/44

42

LL by themselves lived
 * an old couple fond

In a nice little grove
 * just by a millpond.

Like birds of a feather Just always together, From childhood the two of them
 * fed sheep together,

Got married, got wealthy,
 * got houses and lands,

Got a beautiful garden
 * just where the mill stands,

An apiary full
 * of behives like boulders.

Yet no children were theirs,
 * and death at their shoulders.

Who will cheer their passing years? Who will soothe their mortal fears? Who will guard their gathered treasure, In loyal service find his pleasure? Who will be their faithful son When low their sands of life do run?

Hard it is a child to rear, In roofless house 'mid want and fear. Yet just as hard 'mid gathered wealth, When death creeps on with crafty stealth, And one's treasures good
 * At end of life's wandering,

Are for strangers rude
 * For mocking and squandering.