Abramka

Ever since his apprenticeship he had been called "Abramka," which did not strike him as at all derogatory or unfitting.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

"Abramka," and he would have been very much surprised had he been honoured with his full name, Abram Srulevich Stiftik.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

"Abramka always comes in handy," said Mrs. Shaldin jestingly.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

"Well, how do you like it, Abramka!" asked Mrs. Shaldin with a triumphant smile.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

Abramka simply wanted to keep up appearances, as always when he was sent for.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

"Abramka is always ready to serve Mrs. Shaldin first," said the tailor, though seized with a little pang, as if bitten by a guilty conscience.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

"Nothing, Mrs. Zarubkin," said Abramka dejectedly.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

What struck Abramka most was that it had no waist line, that it did not consist of bodice and skirt.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

From that time on Abramka cautiously avoided passing the captain's house.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818

Abramka rose involuntarily, and clasped his hands in astonishment.

Best Russian Short Stories Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin 1818