CHAPTER XI.
Euthymus proceeded on his lonesome journey without further incident, but as he neared his home distracting thoughts as to the condition of his domestic affairs again distressed his mind. He was constantly wondering if they had gone smoothly during his absence.
Remembering the Russian proverb, he said: "A great deal of the river's water passes in one year. While it takes a life-time to make a home, it may be destroyed in no time."
He was anxious to learn how his son had conducted the business during his absence, how the cattle had passed the winter, and if the new house was finished in accordance with his directions.
At length Euthymus reached the village where, more than a year previous, he had parted
