I was released on deductions in August 1952 (by calendar it should have been June 1954). But I was not freed, they decided to send me to exile in the Narym marshes from where I fled in February 1942. They were waiting for a passing police escort. For two months I was free and not free. I worked in zone out of boredom.
Once a general inspecting the camps came to Norilsk. When he entered the section I was alone there.
«Who allowed a prisoner to draw?» he asked.
«My sentence ended two months ago…»
At his request I told him everything about me including the escape and the second conviction. After hearing me out he went but came back from the door.
«Would you show me what you drew?»
I had just finished copying picture «Vassily Terkin. The Rest After Battle» by .
«It is great! Oh how nice!» the general unexpectedly got filled with admiration.
«Take it if you like it,» I shrugged.
 «Don't you feel pity?»
«I will paint another one.»
Rolling «Terkin» the general gave me a level look. The next day I was summoned to freedom.