They
fell into the water enlaced, forming a single heavy mass, and
disappeared under the splashing foam. Then from beneath the agitated
water Iakov appeared, looking half drowned. Malva, at his side swimming
like a fish, eluded his grasp, and tried to prevent him regaining the
boat. Iakov struggled desperately, striking the water and roaring like
a walrus, while Malva, screaming with laughter, swam round and round
him, throwing the salt water in his face, and then diving to avoid his
vigorous blows.
At last he caught her and pulled her under the water, and the waves
passed over both their heads. Then they came to the surface again both
panting with the exertion. Thus they played like two big fish until,
finally, tired out and full of salt water, they climbed up the beach and
sat down in the sun to dry.
Malva laughed and twisted her hair to get the water out.
The day was growing. The fishermen, after their night of heavy slumber,
were emerging from their huts, one by one. From the distance all looked
alike. One began to strike blows on an empty barrel at regular
intervals. Two women were heard quarrelling. Dogs barked.
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