Верховина. Радянські часи. В центр міста привезли бочку квасу. Продавець відчіпає її, готується торгувати. Підходить старий гуцул і питає:
... and asks:
- How much does the whole barrel cost?
- Well, count: two hundred liters, at thirty kopecks per cup. One hundred twenty rubles.
- Here’s your money, go have a walk. In the evening, come back for the empty barrel.
- Alright!
The seller leaves. The old man unfolds the poster "Kvass for Free".
At first, the people were surprised. Then they started to approach. Then a line formed. Then a long line. Then a crowd. Swearing, shouting. Those who tried to skip the line didn’t get any. A fight broke out. A brawl.
The police arrived. They dispersed the crowd. The troublemakers were taken away. The old man too.
They start to press him:
- What was the purpose of provoking the fight?
- I had no such thoughts!
- Were you engaged in illegal trade?
- I was treating people to kvass for free. There are witnesses.
- So the kvass was stolen!
- I bought it with my own money. I have the right.
- Maybe you’re crazy?
- I’m normal. I even have a certificate.
- Alright, old man. We’ll let you go. Just tell us, why did you do this? Why did you spend your money? What’s the catch?
- Alright, I’ll tell you. I’m not young anymore. I definitely won’t live to see communism. And I just wanted to see how it will be... Under communism...
