Page:The grandmother; a story of country life in Bohemia.pdf/276

270 uncle. We drank till we became intoxicated, and then the officers seeking for volunteers came in.'

"'Those villains!' interrupted Mrs. Lidushka, who just then entered the room with the soup. 'Had George remained with me, this would never have happened. I never put up with their deceitful ways; his uncle never goes anywhere, forsooth, except to Lidushka's. Well, well, these young people,—what can one do, when they have no sense? But never mind, George, you are a handsome fellow. Our King likes tall soldiers; he will not leave you long without shoulder straps.'

"'What's done can't be undone,' began George. 'We did not know what we were about, and when we became sober, Shotsky, my dearest comrade, and I were soldiers, I thought I should go mad. Uncle, too, was sorry enough, Finally he began to consider what could be done to lessen the evil I had brought upon myself. He went to the commander and was so far successful in his errand that I remained here. I shall soon be a corporal, and—but of that we will speak by-and-by. Now, do not grieve my heart, for I am so glad to see you.'

"We comforted each other as well as we could. Afterwards he took me to his uncle, who was very glad to see me. In the evening his friend Shotsky came over; he was a good man. He and George remained faithful friends till death. Both have gone to their reward, while I am still here," said Grandmother, and paused, overcome by the feelings that these recollections awakened.

"You did not return home; Grandpa married you then, did he not?" asked Barunka, who in the