Page:The Kobzar of the Ukraine.pdf/57

Rh Yes, Anna went. The old man pled, Mark almost wept for her to stay, As mother sit, to see him wed. Her call of duty elsewhere lay.

"No, Mark, such honor must I not take To sit while you your homage make To parents dear. My mind is clear. A servant must not thy mother be Lest wealthy guests may laugh at thee. Now may God's mercy with thee stay, To the saints at Kiev I go to pray. But yet again shall I return Unto your house, if you do not spurn My strength and toil."

With pure heart
 * she blessed her Mark

And weeping, passed
 * beyond the gate.

Then the wedding blossomed out; Work for musicians and the joyous rout Of dancing feet; While mead so sweet Of fermented honey with spices dashed Over the benches and tables splashed, Meanwhile the Servant limps along Hastening on the weary road to Kiev. To the city come, she does not rest,