The crow flew over the sea but returned still a crow.
More Russian Proverbs:
Went to get wool, but returned bald.Russian
Don't chat on the phone - a talker is a great find for a spy.
Russian
The wolf will hire himself out very cheaply as a shepherd.
Russian
One fisherman knows another from afar.
Russian
Masters are fighting, servants' forelocks are creaking.
Russian
Looking at a tree see its fruit; looking at a man see his deeds.
Russian