Nowhere were any fences visible, or any of those low-roofed houses with verandahs supported upon low wooden pillars, such as were seen in the suburb.

A low wall and a ditch, totally unguarded, betokened a terrible degree of recklessness.

Some sturdy Zaporozhtzi lying, pipe in mouth, in the very road, glanced indifferently at them, but never moved from their places.

Taras threaded his way carefully among them, with his sons, saying, "Good-day, gentles."-- "Good-day to you," answered the Zaporozhtzi.

Scattered over the plain were picturesque groups.