He had brought it along, in case a moment should arrive when some deed awaited them worthy of being handed down to posterity, so that each Cossack, to the very last man, might quaff it, and be inspired with sentiments fitting to the occasion.

On receiving his command, the servants hastened to the waggon, hewed asunder the stout ropes with their swords, removed the thick wolf-skins and horsecloths, and drew forth the flasks and casks.
"Take them all," said Bulba, "all there are; take them, that every one may be supplied.

Take jugs, or the pails for watering the horses; take sleeve or cap; but if you have nothing else, then hold your two hands under." All the Cossacks seized something: one took a jug, another a pail, another a sleeve, another a cap, and another held both hands.

Taras's servants, making their way among the ranks, poured out for all from the casks and flasks.

But Taras ordered them not to drink until he should give the signal for all to drink together.