And suddenly Ardalon disappeared. He went away from the workshop on Sunday, and for three days no one knew where he was.
This made anxious conjectures.
"Perhaps he has been murdered."
"Or maybe he is drowned."
But Ephimushka came, and declared in an embarrassed manner:
"He has gone on the drink."
"Why do you tell such lies?" cried Petr incredulously.
"He has gone on the drink; he is drinking madly. He is just like a corn kiln which burns from the very center. Perhaps his much-loved wife is dead."
"He is a widower! Where is he?"
Petr angrily set out to save Ardalon, but the latter fought him.