Ruin and desolation were all around! Michael approached the old man.
"Will you answer me a few questions ?" he asked.
"Speak," replied the old man.
"Have the Tartars passed this way ?" "Yes, for my house is in flames." "Was it an army or a detachment ?" "An army, for, as far as eye can reach, our fields are laid waste." "Commanded by the Emir ?" "By the Emir; for the Obi's waters are red." "Has Feofar-Khan entered Tomsk ?" "He has." "Do you know if his men have entered Kolyvan ?" "No; for Kolyvan does not yet burn." "Thanks, friend.

Can I aid you and yours ?" "No." "Good-by." "Farewell." And Michael, having presented five and twenty roubles to the unfortunate woman, who had not even strength to thank him, put spurs to his horse once more.
One thing he knew; he must not pass through Tomsk.

To go to Kolyvan, which the Tartars had not yet reached, was possible.

Yes, that is what he must do; there he must prepare himself for another long stage.

There was nothing for it but, having crossed the Obi, to take the Irkutsk road and avoid Tomsk.
This new route decided on, Michael must not delay an instant.