A Hero of our time / Герой нашего времени. Книга для чтения на английском языке

“�When I first saw your horse,’ Azamat went on, �prancing under you, his nostrils open wide and sparks flying under his hoofs, something strange happened in my soul, and I lost interest in everything. I have nothing but contempt now for my father’s best horses, I’m ashamed to be seen riding them, and I have been sick at heart. In my misery I’ve spent days on end sitting on a hill, thinking of nothing but your fleet-footed Karagyoz with his proud stride and sleek back as straight as an arrow, his blazing eyes looking into mine as if he wanted to speak to me.

“I thought I heard him sob; and I must tell you that Azamat was a most stubborn lad and even when he was younger nothing could ever make him cry.

“In reply to his tears I heard something like a laugh.

“�Listen!’ said Azamat, his voice firm now. �You see I am ready to do anything. I could steal my sister for you if you want.

The Turkish Padishah himself never had a wife like her. If you want her, wait for me tomorrow night in the gorge where the stream flows. I’ll go by with her on the way to the next village – and she’ll be yours. Isn’t Bela worth your steed?’

“For a long, long time Kazbich was silent. At last instead of replying, he began softly singing an old song:

�Many fair maids in this village of mine,

Their eyes are dark pools where the stars seem to shine.

Sweet flits the time making love to a maid,

Sweeter’s the freedom of any young blade.

Wives by the dozen are purchased with gold,

But a spirited steed is worth riches untold;

Swift o’er the plains like a whirlwind he flies,

Never betrays you, and never tells lies.’

“In vain Azamat pleaded with him; he tried tears, flattery, and profanity, until finally Kazbich lost patience with him: �Get away with you, boy! Are you crazy? You could never ride my horse! He’d throw you after the first three paces and you’d smash your head against a rock.

“�Me?’ Azamat screamed in a fury, and his child’s dagger rang against the coat of mail. A strong arm flung him back and he fell against the corral fence so violently that it shook. �Now the fun will begin,’ thought I and dashed into the stable, bridled our horses and led them to the yard at the back.