of medium size and dark complexion, and had a thick, curly beard. His head was bald, like that of his patron saint Elisha.
It was now a long time since these two old friends had made a vow to visit the Holy Land together. The delay had been caused by Euthymus, who always declared that important business would prevent him from keeping his promise. He would have to attend the marriage of a grandson, or he was awaiting the return of his youngest son from military service, or he had just begun to build a new house.
On a certain holy-day the two old men chanced to meet, and, after seating themselves on a log, Elissey remarked to his companion:
"Well, my koum [godfather], when are we to fulfil our vow?"
"It is necessary to wait awhile longer," said Euthymus, with a frown; "this has been a hard year for me. I started to build a new house, thinking it would not cost more than a hundred rubles; but now I have expended nearly the
