At the very beginning of September, your mother dragged you to the cottage to help her dig up potatoes. Grumbling all the way, you agreed to do it. When you arrived, having changed into old clothes, you went out to the vegetable garden. Mum's neighbour, who had heard about your visit, almost immediately dragged her under her arm to her plot to drink tea and discuss your neighbours. As usual, all the work was left on your shoulders. Muttering to yourself, you moved the shovel slowly and very reluctantly. A man of rather large build with a gas mask on his head and a bare torso approached the fence: "Madam, I'll help you with the potatoes for a bottle of vodka," he bowed to you playfully before opening the gate and entering the yard