Egorka was a smart fellow, and readily found what was wanted. The nobleman armed himself with these facts as occasion required and contrived to prove everything that was necessary. In fact, he was invincible.
He was, moreover, a plotter against the Government. At one time everyone thought it necessary to conspire against the Government. They were not afraid even to say to one another:
"The English have habeas corpus, but we have ukases."
And they made mock at these differences between nations.
Having done that, they would forget the Government oppression under which they suffered, and sit down and play whist till the cocks crew for the third time.
When the cocks announced the approach of mom the nobleman commanded:
"Egorka, sing something inspiring, and suitable to the hour."
Egorka stood up and, lifting his finger, reminded them in a manner full of meaning:
"In Holy Russia the cocks crow,
It will soon be day in Holy Russia."
"Quite true," said the nobleman; "it will soon be day."