Traveller
But is it not also the likes of you that are soldiers? Why should they shoot at their own fellows?
Peasant
How can they help it? That’s what the oath is for.
Traveller
The oath? What oath?
Peasant
Don’t you understand? Aren’t you a Russian? … The oath is—well, it’s the oath!
Traveller
It means swearing, doesn’t it?
Peasant
Well, of course! They swear by the Cross and by the Gospels, to lay down their life for their country.
Traveller
Well, I think that should not be done.
Peasant
What should not be done?
Traveller
Taking the oath.
Peasant
Not done? Why, the law demands it!
Traveller
No, it is not in the Law. In the Law of Christ, it is plainly forbidden. He said: “Swear not at all.”