So, then, here was a strike of farm-hands and open contumacy, but Krzycki was helpless. He only ordered the aged keeper of the stockyard to tell the hired help that there would come to Rzeslewo to establish order certain gentlemen before whom the vagabonds, who were there the previous day, would abscond as soon as they heard of them; after which he turned back and in half an hour was in Jastrzeb.
A servant told him that all were still asleep, excepting Laskowicz, who had charged him with the delivery of a letter. Krzycki took it and went with it to the office. Having read its contents, he rang for the servant.
"Was he dressed when he gave you the letter?"
"Yes, sir, and was packing his things."
"Ask him if he can come to my office, and if he can, request him to step in."
After a while, the young student entered the room.
Krzycki motioned to him to take a seat in the chair, which was near his desk.
"Good day, sir! I learn from your letter that you wish to leave Jastrzeb and that, at once. I presume that you have cogent reasons for this step. I therefore regard any discussion of them as superfluous, and will not detain you. Here you have what is due to you and the horses will be ready at any time you desire."
But Laskowicz, who in money matters was extremely scrupulous, after counting the money, said:
"You are paying me my whole salary, but as I am leaving before the expiration of the term, I am not entitled to pay for the last month."