Wandering artists tell a funny story about the unlucky Paramon, the troublesome Dus, the absurd gossip and the stupid lady. They are helped by a resourceful peddler, a talented cow, a sudden mouse and a thoughtful fish. Love and fidelity conquer vanity and stupidity.

“Hey, gentlemen, sirs, Muscovites with quirks, aunts-barbarians, mothers-sudarushkas! Red, mustachioed, bearded and curly! Hello, good, and not good, hello too! There is no shortage in my tent. Stored any goods for the last time. Come tomorrow, you won't find me. I’m finishing my trade, I’m leaving for America to get married.”