We have not divided you and not been affectionate,
And what we loved - that is left behind.
I carry in my soul your gleaming image, Valya,
And Lyosha had your image pricked on his chest.

And on that day we said farewelll at the station,
I promised you to remember you till the grave, -
I said: I shall never in my life forget Valya!
- And I especially, - Lyosha answered me.

And now decide, who of us is worse,
And for whom it is more difficult - just try to tear up old wounds:
He has your profile pricked outside,
And I have - my soul pricked inside.

And when I already feel wretched, as on the scaffold, -
May my words not insult you, -
I beg, that Lyosha undo his shirt,
And I look, look for hours at you.

But recently my comrade, a good friend,
Has defeated my misfortune, -
He copied you from Lyosha’s chest
And pricked your profile on my chest.

I know, to slander one’s friends is embarrassing,
But you are close to me and naturally because,
That my, most probably - your tattooing
Is much better and more beautiful than his.