Folksburywoods Story Blog

 “I don’t understand. Have I not served the family well?” asked Wilbin upon seeing the new clothes.

Tradition was strong during Tsar Nicholas II’s reign. When a Domovoy received new clothes, it meant they were dismissed from service.

“I never left the cow unmilked. When that Kikimora came around, I let the cow give her a swift kick right out of here,” remarked Wilbin.

Many farmers were unaware that a kind act meant dishonor to the spirit. This farm was aware, and so when Wilbin saw the clothes, he was hurt.

“Gregor knows what will happen if I leave, yet here are the trousers in my hand,” said the creature.

The truth was that the neighbor was jealous. He wanted the farm to fail so he could get it. He was the one who placed the clothes on top of the cage.

“I love my family and don’t know where I will go,” cried the Domovoy.

The dog, hearing the sobs, came in and asked what was wrong. Wilbin showed him the trousers.

“I am sorry, friend Wilbin, I am as confused as you are. The family has never said you are bad. The woman bought cream to place on your porridge,” the dog said.

Wilbin took off his hat and old trousers, folded them, and placed them on top of the cage. Wilbin bowed and thanked the ancestors. Then he turned and walked away wearing his new clothes.

The dog, seeing this, panicked and ran barking to the house. Sensing danger, Gregor followed the dog to the barn, where he spied the folded clothes.

“No, this can’t be. Who could do such a cruel thing?” said the farmer who raced around the building edge.

Wilbin had not gone far when Gregor rushed up to him.

“Grandfather Domovoy, please wait, there has been some mistake. It was not us that gave you the new clothes. Please do not go,” the farmer said as he bowed.

The Domovoy stood in shock. Then spoke. “If not you, then who?” Wilbin asked.

Gregor’s mind raced until, like a bolt of lightning, he cried, “Muzhichik! That viper has wanted this farm for as long as I can remember. By sending you away, he might have got it,” said Gregor.

Wilbin’s eyes grew enormous. Then he hissed, “A plague upon his house,” and vanished.

Gregor went back to the house and explained what had happened. Over the next few days, they set out extra cream at night. They even made the Domovoy’s favorite porridge with large chunks of butter.

The following week brought news. It seemed the neighbor’s cows had all fallen ill and died.

“Do you think this is our ancestors doing?” asked Gregor’s wife.

Word soon arrived that all the farm animals had perished and the crops were withering in the field.

“Yes, Grandfather Domovoy is the cause of their troubles,” said Gregor.

As autumn approached, the neighboring farmer offered to sell his land for a few rubles. He needed the cash to move to the city for work.

Shortly before Christmas, Gregor was in the barn tending the cow when he heard a familiar voice.

“I knew it couldn’t be you as your family has always done good by me,” said the little man.

“Grandfather, we will always treat you as family and never turn you out,” said the farmer.

“I will keep these trousers as they make me look younger,” said the Domovoy.

“Indeed, they do,” said Gregor with a laugh.

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