"Our coats, that they fall not
In tatters," Roman said.

"Our laputs,[6] that they too
May last the whole journey,"
Demyan next demanded.

"Our shirts, that the fleas
May not breed and annoy us,"
Luka added lastly. 370

The little bird answered,
"The magic white napkin
Will mend, wash, and dry for you.
Now free my child."

Pakhom then spread open
His palm, wide and spacious,
Releasing the fledgeling,
Which fluttered away
To a hole in a pine-tree.
The mother who followed it 380
Added, departing:
"But one thing remember:
Food, summon at pleasure
As much as you fancy,
But vodka, no more
Than a bucket a day.
If once, even twice
You neglect my injunction