Iakov turned his steps in that direction.  He thought he recognised Malva’s voice, but when he arrived at the barrels he recoiled a step and stopped.

In the shade, lying on his back, with his arms under his head, was Serejka.  Near him were, on one side, Vassili and, on the other, Malva.

Iakov thought to himself:  “Why is father here.  Has he left his post so as to be nearer Malva and to watch her?  Should he go up to them or not.”

“So, you’ve decided!” said Serejka to Vassili.  “It’s goodbye to us all?  Well, go your way and scratch the soil.”

A thrill went through Iakov and he made a joyous grimace.

“Yes, I’m going;” said Vassili.

Then Iakov advanced boldly.

“Good-day, all!”

The father gave him a rapid glance and then turned away his eyes.  Malva did not stir.  Serejka moved his leg and raising his voice said: 

“Here’s our dearly beloved son, Iakov, back from a distant shore.”

Then he added in his ordinary voice: 

“You should flay him alive and make drums with his skin.”

Malva laughed.

“It’s hot,” said Iakov, sitting beside them.

“I’ve been waiting for you since this morning, Iakov.  The inspector told me you were coming.”

The young man thought his voice seemed weaker than usual and his face seemed changed.  He asked Serejka for a cigarette.

“I have no tobacco for an imbecile like you,” replied the latter, without stirring.

“I’m going back home, Iakov,” said Vassili, gravely digging into the sand with his fingers.

“Why,” asked the son, innocently.

“Never mind why, shall you stay?”

“Yes.  I’ll remain.  What should we both do at home?”

“Very well.  I have nothing to say.  Do as you please.  You are no longer a child.  Only remember that I shall not get about long.  I shall live, perhaps, but I do not know how long I shall work.  I have lost the habit of the soil.  Remember, too, that your mother is there.”

Evidently it was difficult for him to talk.  The words stuck between his teeth.  He stroked his beard and his hand trembled.

Malva eyed him.  Serejka had half closed one eye and with the other watched Iakov.  Iakov was jubilant, but afraid of betraying himself; he was silent and lowered his head.

“Don’t forget your mother, Iakov.  Remember, you are all she has.”

“I know,” said Iakov, shrugging his shoulders.

“It is well if you know,” said the father, with a look of distrust.  “I only warn you not to forget it.”

Vassili sighed deeply.  For a few minutes all were silent.

Then Malva said: 

“The work bell will soon ring.”

“I’m going,” said Vassili, rising.

And all rose.

“Goodbye, Serejka.  If you happen to be on the Volga, maybe you’ll drop in to see me.”