“ We’ve lived without a bridge,” said Volodka, not looking at anyone, “and we don’t want one.”
“ What next; the bridge is a government business.”
“ We don’t want it.”
“ Your opinion is not asked. What is it to you?”
“‘ Your opinion is not asked,’” Volodka mimicked him. “We don’t want to drive anywhere; what do we want with a bridge? If we have to, we can cross by the boat.”
Someone from the yard outside knocked at the window so violently that it seemed to shake the whole hut.
“ Is Volodka at home?” he heard the voice of the younger Lytchkov. “Volodka, come out, come along.”
Volodka jumped down off the stove and began looking for his cap.
“ Don’t go, Volodka,” said Rodion diffidently. “Don’t go with them, son. You are foolish, like a little child; they will teach you no good;
