Peter Tempest : Part 5*

All this time
the Tsar's own daughter
Quietly ,as Nature taught her,
Grew and grew ,and came quite soon
Like a flower into bloom :
Raven-browed,of fair complexion,
Breathing kindness and affection.
And the choice of fiance' *
Lighted on Prince Yelisei.
Suit was made.
The Tsar consented
And her dowry was indented :
Seven towns with wealthy store,
Mansion-houses --- sevenscore!..
On the night before the wedding
For a bridle party dressing
The Tsaritsa , time to pass,
Chatted with her looking-glass :
"Who in all the world is fairest
And has beauty of the rsrest?!."
Then what did the glass reply?..
"You are fair, I can't deny.
But the Princess is the fairest
And her(!) beauty is the rarest."****
Up(!) the proud Tsaritsa jumped.
On the table how she thumped,
Angrily the mirror slapping,
Slipper heel in fury tapping!..
" O you loathsome looking-glass.
Telling lies ss bold as brass!..
By what right is she my rival?!.
Such young folly I shall bridle.
So she's grown up -- me to spite!..
Little wonder she's so white :
With her bulging mother gasing
At that snow -- what's so amazing!..
Now look here ,explain to me
How can she the fairer be?!.
Scour this realm of ours and seek well
Nowhere shall you find my equal.
Is not that the truth?!." she cried.
Still the looking-glass replied :
" But the Princess is the fairest
And her(!)beauty is the rarest!.."***
Master Den O'clock( the friend of mine!..)*
Aкын (ОК-Ин**,)*26.02.2022***Sbth*day