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them! One egg is of but little value, and without it God will supply
sufficient for all our needs."
Ivan's daughter-in-law here interposed and said, "But they called us
vile names."
The old grandfather again spoke, saying: "Well, even if they did call
you bad names, it would have been better to return good for evil, and
by your example show them how to speak better. Such conduct on your part
would have been best for all concerned." He continued: "Well, you had a
fight, you wicked people. Such things sometimes happen, but it would
be better if you went afterward and asked forgiveness and buried your
grievances out of sight. Scatter them to the four winds of heaven, for
if you do not do so it will be the worse for you in the end."
The younger members of the family, still obstinate, refused to profit
by the old man's advice, and declared he was not right, and that he only
liked to grumble in his old-fashioned way.
Ivan refused to go to his neighbor, as the grandfather wished, saying:
"I did not tear out Gavryl's beard. He did it himself, and his son tore
my shirt and trousers into shreds."
Ivan entered suit against Gavryl. He first went to the village justice,
and not getting satisfaction from him he carried his case to the village
court.
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