“You should have steered by the stars,” said Daddy Eróshka.
“That’s what I say,” interjected Ergushóv.
“Yes, steer when all is black; I tried and tried all about... and at last I put the bridle on one of the mares and let my own horse go free—thinking he’ll lead us out, and what do you think! he just gave a snort or two with his nose to the ground, galloped ahead, and led us straight to our village. Thank goodness! It was getting quite light. We barely had time to hide them in the forest. Nagím came across the river and took them away.”
Ergushóv shook his head. “It’s just what I said. Smart. Did you get much for them?”
“It’s all here,” said Lukáshka, slapping his pocket.
Just then his mother came into the room, and Lukáshka did not finish what he was saying.
“Drink!” he shouted.
“We too, Gírich and I, rode out late one night...” began Eróshka.
“Oh bother, we’ll never hear the end of you!” said Lukáshka. “I am going.” And having emptied his cup and tightened the strap of his belt he went out.