The boat gave a little jerk and came to a halt, the oars dragging and stirring up the water. Gavrilla shifted uneasily on his seat.
Row!
A fierce oath shook the air. Gavrilla lifted the oars and the boat, as if frightened, leaped ahead in quick nervous spurts that made the water splash.
Steady!
Chelkash half rose without letting go of the steering oar and fastened cold eyes on Gavrillas white face. He was like a cat about to spring as he stood there bent forward. The grinding of his teeth could be heard, as could the chattering of Gavrillas teeth.
Whos shouting there? came a stern cry from out at sea.
Row, you bastard! Row! Shhh! Ill kill you, damn your hide! Row, I tell you! One, two! Just you dare to make a sound! Ill rip you to pieces! hissed Chelkash.
Holy Virgin, Mother of God! murmured Gavrilla, trembling with fear and exertion.