"
And Zubov said to his neighbour, Mayakin:
"The prayer 'At the Building of a Vessel' is not suitable for
steam-tugs and river steamers, that is, not that it is not
suitable, it isn't enough alone. A river steamer is a place of
permanent residence for the crew, and therefore it ought to be
considered as a house. Consequently it is necessary to make the
prayer 'At the Building of a House,' in addition to that for the
vessel. But what will you drink?"
"I am not much of a wine fiend. Pour me out some cumin vodka,"
replied Yakov Tarasovich.
Foma, seated at the end of the table among some timid and modest
men who were unfamiliar to him, now and again felt on himself the
sharp glances of the old man.
"He's afraid I'll make a scandal," thought Foma. "Brethren!"
roared the monstrously stout ship builder Yashchurov, in a hoarse
voice," I can't do without herring! I must necessarily begin with
herring, that's my nature."
"Musicians! strike up 'The Persian March!"
"Hold on! Better 'How Glorious!'"
"Strike up 'How Glorious.
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