"Certainly," said the merchant; "we will do so. We can easily buy another." And he ordered the horse to be killed.
The servants began to sharpen their knives. When Ivanushka came from school, and heard that they were going to kill the horse, he went at once to his father, and said,—
"Father, permit me for the last time to feed the horse, and to lead him about the yard."
The merchant gave his permission. Ivanushka fed the horse with barley; then he took him by the bridle, and led him into the yard. Ivanushka looked at the horse and shed bitter tears.
All of a sudden the horse kicked Ivanushka; the boy fell down, but quickly sprang up again.
"Has your strength increased?" asked the horse.
"Yes, it has."
The horse again kicked him, and asked, "Has it still increased?"
"I feel very strong indeed," answered Ivan. "I should like very much to try my strength on somebody."
"Ask your father to let you ride me on the road for the last time, and to enjoy yourself."
Ivan went to his father.
"Father," he said, "allow me to ride on the horse for the last time, and to enjoy myself."
