"Be it as you desire," said he, "punish to the end, or pardon
completely, that's my way. Take your promised bride wherever you
choose, and may God give you love and happiness." He turned to Alexis,
and ordered him to write me a passport for all the forts subject to his
power. Alexis was petrified with astonishment. Pougatcheff went off
to inspect the fortress; Alexis followed him; I remained.

I ran up to Marie's room. The door was closed. I knocked.

"Who is there?" asked Polacca.

I gave my name. I heard Marie say: "In an instant, Peter, I shall
join you at Accoulina's."

Father Garasim and Accoulina came out to welcome me. I was honored
with everything at the command of the hostess, whose voluble tongue
never ceased. It was not long before Marie entered, quite pale; she
had laid aside the peasant's dress, and was, as usual, clad in
simplicity, but with neatness and taste. I seized her hand, unable to
utter a word. We were both silent from full hearts. Our hosts left
us, and I could now speak of plans for her safety. It was impossible
that she should stay in a fortress subject to Pougatcheff, and
commanded by the infamous Alexis. Neither could she find refuge at
Orenbourg, suffering all the horrors of siege. I proposed that she
should go to my father's country-seat. This surprised her. But I
assured her that my father would hold it a duty and an honor to receive
the daughter of a veteran who had died for his country. In conclusion,
I said: "My dear Marie; I consider thee as my wife; these strange
events have bound us for ever to each other."