AKOULNA. What?

NIKTA. Show your presents.

AKOULNA. The presents, what's the use of showing 'em? I've put 'em away.

NIKTA. Get them, I tell you. Nan will like to see 'em. Undo the shawl. Give it here.

AKM. Oh, oh! It's sickening!

[Climbs on the oven.

AKOULNA (gets out the parcels and puts them on the table). Well, there you are,—what's the good of looking at 'em?

NAN. Oh how lovely! It's as good as Stepanda's.

AKOULNA. Stepanda's? What's Stepanda's compared to this? (Brightening up and undoing the parcels.) Just look here,—see the quality! It's a French one.

NAN. The print is fine! Mary has a dress like it, only lighter on a blue ground. This is pretty.

NIKTA. Ah, that's it!

[ANSYA passes angrily into the closet, returns with a tablecloth and the chimney of the Samovr, and goes up to the table.

ANSYA. Drat you, littering the table!

NIKTA. You look here!

ANSYA. What am I to look at? Have I never seen anything? Put it away!

[Sweeps the shawl on to the floor with her arm.

AKOULNA. What are you pitching things down for? You pitch your own things about!

[Picks up the shawl.

NIKTA. Ansya! Look here!

ANSYA. Why am I to look?

NIKTA. You think I have forgotten you? Look here! (Shows her a parcel and sits down on it.) It's a present for you. Only you must earn it! Wife, where am I sitting?

ANSYA. Enough of your humbug. I'm not afraid of you. Whose money are you spreeing on and buying your fat wench presents with? Mine!

AKOULNA. Yours indeed? No fear! You wished to steal it, but it did not come off! Get out of the way!

[Pushes her while trying to pass.

ANSYA. What are you shoving for? I'll teach you to shove!

AKOULNA. Shove me? You try!

[Presses against ANSYA.

NIKTA. Now then, now then, you women. Have done now!

[Steps between them.

AKOULNA. Comes shoving herself in! You ought to keep quiet and remember your doings! You think no one knows!

ANSYA. Knows what? Out with it, out with it! What do they know?

AKOULNA. I know something about you!

ANSYA. You're a slut who goes with another's husband!

AKOULNA. And you did yours to death!

ANSYA (throwing herself on AKOULNA). You're raving!

NIKTA (holding her back). Ansya, you seem to have forgotten!

ANSYA. Want to frighten me! I'm not afraid of you!

NIKTA (turns ANSYA round and pushes her out). Be off!

ANSYA. Where am I to go? I'll not go out of my own house!

NIKTA. Be off, I tell you, and don't dare to come in here!

ANSYA. I won't go! (NIKTA pushes her, ANSYA cries and screams and clings to the door.) What! am I to be turned out of my own house by the scruff of the neck? What are you doing, you scoundrel? Do you think there's no law for you? You wait a bit!

NIKTA. Now then!

ANSYA. I'll go to the Elder! To the policeman!

NIKTA. Off, I tell you!

[Pushes her out.

ANSYA (behind the door). I'll hang myself!

NIKTA. No fear!

NAN. Oh, oh, oh! Mother, dear, darling!

[Cries.

NIKTA. Me frightened of her! A likely thing! What are you crying for? She'll come back, no fear. Go and see to the samovr.

[Exit NAN.

AKOULNA (collects and folds her presents). The mean wretch, how she's messed it up. But wait a bit, I'll cut up her jacket for her! Sure I will!

NIKTA. I've turned her out; what more do you want?

AKOULNA. She's dirtied my new shawl. If that bitch hadn't gone away, I'd have torn her eyes out!

NIKTA. That's enough. Why should you be angry? Now if I loved her....

AKOULNA. Loved her? She's worth loving, with her fat mug! If you'd have given her up, then nothing would have happened. You should have sent her to the devil. And the house was mine all the same, and the money was mine! Says she is the mistress, but what sort of mistress is she to her husband? She's a murderess, that's what she is! She'll serve you the same way!

NIKTA. Oh dear, how's one to stop a woman's jaw? You don't yourself know what you're jabbering about!

AKOULNA. Yes, I do. I'll not live with her! I'll turn her out of the house! She can't live here with me. The mistress indeed! She's not the mistress,—that jailbird!

NIKTA. That's enough! What have you to do with her? Don't mind her. You look at me! I am the master! I do as I like. I've ceased to love her, and now I love you. I love who I like! The power is mine, she's under me. That's where I keep her. (Points to his feet.) A pity we've no concertina.

[Sings.

"We have loaves on the stoves, We have porridge on the shelf. So we'll live and be gay, Making merry every day, And when death comes, Then we'll die! We have loaves on the stoves, We have porridge on the shelf...."

[Enter MTRITCH. He takes off his outdoor things and climbs on the oven.

MTRITCH. Seems the women have been fighting again! Tearing each other's hair. Oh Lord, gracious Nicholas!

AKM. (sitting on the edge of the oven, takes his leg-bands and shoes and begins putting them on). Get in, get into the corner.

MTRITCH. Seems they can't settle matters between them. Oh Lord!

NIKTA. Get out the liquor, we'll have some with our tea.

NAN (to AKOULNA). Sister, the samovr is just boiling over.

NIKTA. And where's your mother?

NAN. She's standing and crying out there in the passage.

NIKTA. Oh, that's it! Call her, and tell her to bring the samovr. And you, Akoulna, get the tea things.

AKOULNA. The tea things? All right.

[Brings the things.

NIKTA (unpacks spirits, rusks, and salt herrings). That's for myself. This is yarn for the wife. The paraffin is out there in the passage, and here's the money. Wait a bit (takes a counting-frame); I'll add it up. (Adds.) Wheat-flour, 80 kopeykas, oil ... Father, 10 roubles ... Father, come let's have some tea!

[Silence. AKM sits on the oven and winds the bands round his legs. Enter ANSYA with samovr.

ANSYA. Where shall I put it?

NIKTA. Here on the table. Well! have you been to the Elder? Ah, that's it! Have your say and then eat your words. Now then, that's enough. Don't be cross; sit down and drink this. (Fills a wine-glass for her.) And here's your present.

[Gives her the parcel he had been sitting on. ANSYA takes it silently and shakes her head.

AKM (gets down and puts on his sheepskin, then comes up to the table and puts down the money). Here, take your money back! Put it away.

NIKTA (does not see the money). Why have you put on your things?

AKM. I'm going, going, I mean; forgive me, for the Lord's sake.

[Takes up his cap and belt.

NIKTA. My gracious! Where are you going to at this time of night?

AKM. I can't, I mean what d'ye call 'em, in your house, what d'ye call 'em, can't stay I mean, stay, can't stay, forgive me.

NIKTA. But are you going without having any tea?

AKM (fastens his belt). Going because, I mean, it's not right in your house, I mean, what d'you call it, not right, Nikta, in the house, what d'ye call it, not right! I mean, you are living a bad life, Nikta, bad,—I'll go.

NIKTA. Eh, now! Have done talking! Sit down and drink your tea!

ANSYA. Why, father, you'll shame us before the neighbors. What has offended you?

AKM. Nothing what d'ye call it, nothing has offended me, nothing at all! I mean only, I see, what d'you call it, I mean, I see my son, to ruin, I mean, to ruin, I mean my son's on the road to ruin, I mean.

NIKTA. What ruin? Just prove it!

AKM. Ruin, ruin; you're in the midst of it! What did I tell you that time?

NIKTA. You said all sorts of things! Akm. I told you, what d'ye call it, I told you about the orphan lass. That you had wronged an orphan— Marna, I mean, wronged her!

NIKTA. Eh! he's at it again. Let bygones be bygones.... All that's past!

AKM (excited). Past! No, lad, it's not past. Sin, I mean, fastens on to sin—drags sin after it, and you've stuck fast, Nikta, fast in sin! Stuck fast in sin! I see you're fast in sin. Stuck fast, sunk in sin, I mean!

NIKTA. Sit down and drink your tea, and have done with it!

AKM. I can't, I mean can't what d'ye call it, can't drink tea. Because of your filth, I mean; I feel what d'ye call it, I feel sick, very sick! I can't what d'ye call it, I can't drink tea with you.

NIKTA. Eh! There he goes rambling! Come to the table.

AKM. You're in your riches same as in a net—you're in a net, I mean. Ah, Nikta, it's the soul that God needs!

NIKTA. Now really, what right have you to reprove me in my own house? Why do you keep on at me? Am I a child that you can pull by the hair? Nowadays those things have been dropped!

AKM. That's true. I have heard that nowadays, what d'ye call it, that nowadays children pull their fathers' beards, I mean! But that's ruin, that's ruin, I mean!

NIKTA (angrily). We are living without help from you, and it's you who came to us with your wants!

AKM. The money? There's your money! I'll go begging, begging I mean, before I'll take it, I mean.

NIKTA. That's enough! Why be angry and upset the whole company!

[Holds him by the arm.

AKM (shrieks). Let go! I'll not stay. I'd rather sleep under some fence than in the midst of your filth! Faugh! God forgive me!

[Exit.

NIKTA. Here's a go!

AKM (reopens the door). Come to your senses, Nikta! It's the soul that God wants!

[Exit.

AKOULNA (takes cups). Well, shall I pour out the tea?

[Takes a cup. All are silent.

MTRITCH (roars). Oh Lord be merciful to me a sinner!

[All start.

NIKTA (lies down on the bench). Oh, it's dull, it's dull! (To AKOULNA.) Where's the concertina?

AKOULNA. The concertina? He's bethought himself of it. Why, you took it to be mended. I've poured out your tea. Drink it!

NIKTA. I don't want it! Put out the light.... Oh, how dull I feel, how dull!

[Sobs.

CURTAIN



ACT IV

Autumn. Evening. The moon is shining. The stage represents the interior of courtyard. The scenery at the back shows, in the middle, the back porch of the hut. To the right the winter half of the hut and the gate; to the left the summer half and the cellar. To the right of the stage is a shed. The sound of tipsy voices and shouts are heard from the hut.[5] SECOND NEIGHBOR WOMAN comes out of the hut and beckons to FIRST NEIGHBOR WOMAN.

SECOND NEIGHBOR. How's it Akoulna has not shown herself?

FIRST NEIGHBOR. Why hasn't she shown herself? She'd have been glad to; but she's too ill, you know. The suitor's relatives have come, and want to see the girl; and she, my dear, she's lying in the cold hut and can't come out, poor thing!

SECOND NEIGHBOR. But how's that?

FIRST NEIGHBOR. They say she's been bewitched by an evil eye! She's got pains in the stomach!

SECOND NEIGHBOR. You don't say so?

FIRST NEIGHBOR. What else could it be?

[Whispers.

SECOND NEIGHBOR. Dear me! There's a go! But his relatives will surely find it out?

FIRST NEIGHBOR. They find it out! They're all drunk! Besides, they are chiefly after her dowry. Just think what they give with the girl! Two furs, my dear, six dresses, a French shawl, and I don't know how many pieces of linen, and money as well,—two hundred roubles, it's said!

SECOND NEIGHBOR. That's all very well, but even money can't give much pleasure in the face of such a disgrace.

FIRST NEIGHBOR. Hush!... There's his father, I think.

[They cease talking and go into the hut.

[The SUITOR'S FATHER comes out of the hut hiccoughing.

THE FATHER. Oh, I'm all in a sweat. It's awfully hot! Will just cool myself a bit. (Stands puffing.) The Lord only knows what—something is not right. I can't feel happy.—Well, it's the old woman's affair.

[Enter MATRYNA from hut.

MATRYNA. And I was just thinking, where's the father? Where's the father? And here you are, dear friend.... Well, dear friend, the Lord be thanked! Everything is as honorable as can be! When one's arranging a match one should not boast. And I have never learnt to boast. But as you've come about the right business, so with the Lord's help, you'll be grateful to me all your life! She's a wonderful girl! There's no other like her in all the district!

THE FATHER. That's true enough, but how about the money?

MATRYNA. Don't you trouble about the money! All she had from her father goes with her. And it's more than one gets easily, as things are nowadays. Three times fifty roubles!

THE FATHER. We don't complain, but it's for our own child. Naturally we want to get the best we can.

MATRYNA. I'll tell you straight, friend: if it hadn't been for me, you'd never have found anything like her! They've had an offer from the Karmilins, but I stood out against it. And as for the money, I'll tell you truly: when her father, God be merciful to his soul, was dying, he gave orders that the widow should take Nikta into the homestead—of course I know all about it from my son,—and the money was to go to Akoulna. Why, another one might have thought of his own interests, but Nikta gives everything clean! It's no trifle. Fancy what a sum it is!

THE FATHER. People are saying that more money was left her? The lad's sharp too!

MATRYNA. Oh, dear soul alive! A slice in another's hand always looks big; all she had will be handed over. I tell you, throw doubts to the wind and make all sure! What a girl she is! as fresh as a daisy!

THE FATHER. That's so. But my old woman and I were only wondering about the girl; why has she not come out? We've been thinking, suppose she's sickly?

MATRYNA. Ah, ah.... Who? She? Sickly? Why, there's none to compare with her in the district. The girl's as sound as a bell; you can't pinch her. But you saw her the other day! And as for work, she's wonderful! She's a bit deaf, that's true, but there are spots on the sun, you know. And her not coming out, you see, it's from an evil eye! A spell's been cast on her! And I know the bitch who's done the business! They know of the betrothal and they bewitched her. But I know a counter-spell. The girl will get up to-morrow. Don't you worry about the girl!

THE FATHER. Well, of course, the thing's settled.

MATRYNA. Yes, of course! Don't you turn back. And don't forget me, I've had a lot of trouble. Don't forget....

[A woman's voice from the hut.

Voice. If we are to go, let's go. Come along, Ivn!

THE FATHER. I'm coming.

[Exeunt. Guests crowd together in the passage and prepare to go away.

NAN (runs out of the hut and calls to ANSYA). Mother!

ANSYA (from inside.) What d'you want?

NAN. Mother, come here, or they'll hear.

[ANSYA enters and they go together to the shed.

ANSYA. Well? What is it? Where's Akoulna?

NAN She's gone into the barn. It's awful what's she's doing there! I'm blest! "I can't bear it," she says. "I'll scream," she says, "I'll scream out loud." Blest if she didn't.

ANSYA. She'll have to wait. We'll see our visitors off first.

NAN. Oh, mother! She's so bad! And she's angry too. "What's the good of their drinking my health?" she says. "I shan't marry," she says. "I shall die," she says. Mother, supposing she does die! It's awful. I'm so frightened!

ANSYA. No fear, she'll not die. But don't you go near her. Come along.

[Exit ANSYA and NAN.

MTRITCH (comes in at the gate and begins collecting the scattered hay). Oh, Lord! Merciful Nicholas! What a lot of liquor they've been and swilled, and the smell they've made! It smells even out here! But no, I don't want any, drat it! See how they've scattered the hay about. They don't eat it, but only trample it under foot. A truss gone before you know it. Oh, that smell, it seems to be just under my nose! Drat it! (Yawns.) It's time to go to sleep! But I don't care to go into the hut. It seems to float just round my nose! It has a strong scent, the damned stuff! (The guests are heard driving off.) They're off at last. Oh Lord! Merciful Nicholas! There they go, binding themselves and gulling one another. And it's all gammon!

[Enter NIKTA.

NIKTA. Mtritch, you get off to sleep and I'll put this straight.

MTRITCH. All right, you throw it to the sheep. Well, have you seen 'em all off?

NIKTA. Yes, they're off! But things are not right! I don't know what to do!

MTRITCH. It's a fine mess. But there's the Foundlings'[6] for that sort of thing. Whoever likes may drop one there; they'll take 'em all. Give 'em as many as you like, they ask no questions, and even pay—if the mother goes in as a wet-nurse. It's easy enough nowadays.

NIKTA. But mind, Mtritch, don't go blabbing.

MTRITCH. It's no concern of mine. Cover the tracks as you think best. Dear me, how you smell of liquor! I'll go in. Oh, Lord!

[Exit, yawning.

[NIKTA is long silent. Sits down on a sledge.

NIKTA. Here's a go!

[Enter ANSYA.

ANSYA. Where are you?

NIKTA. Here.

ANSYA. What are you doing there? There's no time to be lost! We must take it out directly!

NIKTA. What are we to do?

ANSYA. I'll tell you what you are to do. And you'll have to do it!

NIKTA. You'd better take it to the Foundlings'—if anything.

ANSYA. Then you'd better take it there yourself if you like! You've a hankering for smut, but you're weak when it comes to settling up, I see!

NIKTA. What's to be done?

ANSYA. Go down into the cellar, I tell you, and dig a hole!

NIKTA. Couldn't you manage, somehow, some other way?

ANSYA (imitating him). "Some other way?" Seems we can't "some other way!" You should have thought about it a year ago. Do what you're told to! Nikta. Oh, dear, what a go!

[Enter NAN.

NAN. Mother! Grandmother's calling! I think sister's got a baby! I'm blest if it didn't scream!

ANSYA. What are you babbling about? Plague take you! It's kittens whining there. Go into the hut and sleep, or I'll give it you!

NAN. Mammy dear, truly, I swear....

ANSYA (raising her arm as if to strike). I'll give it you! You be off and don't let me catch sight of you! (Nan runs into hut. To Nikta.) Do as you're told, or else mind!

[Exit.

NIKTA (alone. After a long silence). Here's a go! Oh, these women! What a fix! Says you should have thought of it a year ago. When's one to think beforehand? When's one to think? Why, last year this Ansya dangled after me. What was I to do? Am I a monk? The master died; and I covered my sin as was proper, so I was not to blame there. Aren't there lots of such cases? And then those powders. Did I put her up to that? Why, had I known what the bitch was up to, I'd have killed her! I'm sure I should have killed her! She's made me her partner in these horrors—that jade! And she became loathsome to me from that day! She became loathsome, loathsome to me as soon as mother told me about it. I can't bear the sight of her! Well, then, how could I live with her? And then it begun.... That wench began hanging round. Well, what was I to do! If I had not done it, some one else would. And this is what comes of it! Still I'm not to blame in this either. Oh, what a go! (Sits thinking.) They are bold, these women! What a plan to think of! But I won't have a hand in it!

[Enter MATRYNA with a lantern and spade, panting.

MATRYNA. Why are you sitting there like a hen on a perch? What did your wife tell you to do? You just get things ready!

NIKTA. What do you mean to do?

MATRYNA. We know what to do. You do your share!

NIKTA. You'll be getting me into a mess!

MATRYNA. What? You're not thinking of backing out, are you? Now it's come to this, and you back out!

NIKTA. Think what a thing it would be! It's a living soul.

MATRYNA. A living soul indeed! Why, it's more dead than alive. And what's one to do with it? Go and take it to the Foundlings'—it will die just the same, and the rumor will get about, and people will talk, and the girl be left on our hands.

NIKTA. And supposing it's found out?

MATRYNA. Not manage to do it in one's own house? We'll manage it so that no one will have an inkling. Only do as I tell you. We women can't do it without a man. There, take the spade, and get it done there,—I'll hold the light.

NIKTA. What am I to get done?

MATRYNA (in a low voice). Dig a hole; then we'll bring it out and get it out of the way in a trice! There, she's calling again. Now then, get in, and I'll go.

NIKTA. Is it dead then?

MATRYNA. Of course it is. Only you must be quick, or else people will notice! They'll see or they'll hear! The rascals must needs know everything. And the policeman went by this evening. Well then, you see (gives him the spade), you get down into the cellar and dig a hole right in the corner; the earth is soft there, and you'll smooth it over. Mother earth will not blab to any one; she'll keep it close. Go then; go, dear.

NIKTA. You'll get me into a mess, bother you! I'll go away! You do it alone as best you can!

ANSYA (through the doorway). Well? Has he dug it?

MATRYNA. Why have you come away? What have you done with it?

ANSYA. I've covered it with rags. No one can hear it. Well, has he dug it?

MATRYNA. He doesn't want to!

ANSYA (springs out enraged). Doesn't want to! How will he like feeding vermin in prison! I'll go straight away and tell everything to the police! It's all the same if one must perish. I'll go straight and tell!

NIKTA (taken aback). What will you tell?

ANSYA. What? Everything! Who took the money? You! (NIKTA is silent.) And who gave the poison? I did! But you knew! You knew! You knew! We were in agreement!

MATRYNA. That's enough now. Nikta dear, why are you obstinate? What's to be done now? One must take some trouble. Go, honey.

ANSYA. See the fine gentleman! He doesn't like it! You've put upon me long enough! You've trampled me under foot! Now it's my turn! Go, I tell you, or else I'll do what I said.... There, take the spade; there, now go!

NIKTA. Drat you! Can't you leave a fellow alone! (Takes the spade, but shrinks.) If I don't choose to, I'll not go!

ANSYA. Not go? (Begins to shout.) Neighbors! Heh! heh!

MATRYNA (closes her mouth). What are you about? You're mad! He'll go.... Go, sonny, go, my own.

ANSYA. I'll cry murder!

NIKTA. Now stop! Oh, what people! You'd better be quick.... As well be hung for a sheep as a lamb!

[Goes towards the cellar.

MATRYNA. Yes, that's just it, honey. If you know how to amuse yourself, you must know how to hide the consequences.

ANSYA (still excited). He's trampled on me ... he and his slut! But it's enough! I'm not going to be the only one! Let him also be a murderer! Then he'll know how it feels!

MATRYNA. There, there! How she flares up! Don't you be cross, lass, but do things quietly little by little, as it's best. You go to the girl, and he'll do the work.

[Follows NIKTA to the cellar with a lantern. He descends into the cellar.

ANSYA. And I'll make him strangle his dirty brat! (Still excited.) I've worried myself to death all alone, with Peter's bones weighing on my mind! Let him feel it too! I'll not spare myself; I've said I'll not spare myself!

NIKTA (from the cellar). Show a light!

MATRYNA (holds up the lantern to him. To ANSYA). He's digging. Go and bring it.

ANSYA. You stay with him, or he'll go away, the wretch! And I'll go and bring it.

MATRYNA. Mind, don't forget to baptize it, or I will if you like. Have you a cross?

ANSYA. I'll find one. know how to do it.

[Exit.

* * * * *

See at end of Act, VARIATION, which may be used instead of the following.

* * * * *

MATRYNA. How the woman bristled up! But one must allow she's been put upon. Well, but with the Lord's help, when we've covered this business, there'll be an end of it. We'll shove the girl off without any trouble. My son will live in comfort. The house, thank God, is as full as an egg. They'll not forget me either. Where would they have been without Matryna? They'd not have known how to contrive things. (Peering into the cellar.) Is it ready, sonny? Nikta (puts out his head). What are you about there? Bring it quick! What are you dawdling for? If it is to be done, let it be done.

MATRYNA (goes towards door of the hut and meets ANSYA. ANSYA comes out with a baby wrapped in rags). Well, have you baptized it?

ANSYA. Why, of course. It was all I could do to take it away—she wouldn't give it up!

[Comes forward and hands it to NIKTA.

NIKTA (does not take it). You bring it yourself!

ANSYA. Take it, I tell you!

[Throws the baby to him.

NIKTA (catches it). It's alive! Gracious me, it's moving! It's alive! What am I to....

ANSYA (snatches the baby from him and throws it into the cellar). Be quick and smother it, and then it won't be alive! (Pushes NIKTA down.) It's your doing, and you must finish it.

MATRYNA (sits on the doorstep of the hut). He's tender-hearted. It's hard on him, poor dear. Well, what of that? Isn't it also his sin?

[ANSYA stands by the cellar.

MATRYNA (sits looking at her and discourses). Oh, oh, oh! How frightened he was: well, but what of that? If it is hard, it's the only thing to be done. Where was one to put it? And just think, how often it happens that people pray to God to have children! But no, God gives them none; or they are all still-born. Look at our priest's wife now.... And here, where it's not wanted, here it lives. (Looks towards the cellar.) I suppose he's finished. (To ANSYA.) Well?

ANSYA (looking into the cellar). He's put a board on it and is sitting on it. It must be finished!

MATRYNA. Oh, oh! One would be glad not to sin, but what's one to do?

[Re-enter NIKTA from cellar, trembling all over.

NIKTA. It's still alive! I can't! It's alive!

ANSYA. If it's alive, where are you off to?

[Tries to stop him.

NIKTA (rushes at her). Go away! I'll kill you! (Catches hold of her arms; she escapes, he runs after her with the spade. MATRYNA runs towards him and stops him. ANSYA runs into the porch. MATRYNA tries to wrench the spade from him. To his mother.) I'll kill you! I'll kill you! Go away! (MATRYNA runs to ANSYA in the porch. NIKTA stops.) I'll kill you! I'll kill you all!

MATRYNA. That's because he's so frightened! Never mind, it will pass!

NIKTA. What have they made me do? What have they made me do? How it whimpered.... How it crunched under me! What have they done with me?... And it's really alive, still alive! (Listens in silence.) It's whimpering... There, it's whimpering.

[Runs to the cellar.

MATRYNA (to ANSYA). He's going; it seems he means to bury it. Nikta, you'd better take the lantern!

NIKTA (does not heed her, but listens by the cellar door). I can hear nothing! I suppose it was fancy! (Moves away, then stops.) How the little bones crunched under me. Krr ... kr.... What have they made me do? (Listens again.) Again whimpering! It's really whimpering! What can it be? Mother! Mother, I say!

[Goes up to her.

MATRYNA. What is it, sonny?

NIKTA. Mother, my own mother, I can't do any more! Can't do any more! My own mother, have some pity on me!

MATRYNA. Oh dear, how frightened you are, my darling! Come, come, drink a drop to give you courage!

NIKTA. Mother, mother! It seems my time has come! What have you done with me? How the little bones crunched, and how it whimpered! My own mother! What have you done with me?

[Steps aside and sits down on the sledge.

MATRYNA. Come, my own, have a drink! It certainly does seem uncanny at night-time. But wait a bit. When the day breaks, you know, and one day and another passes, you'll forget even to think of it. Wait a bit; when the girl's married we'll even forget to think of it. But you go and have a drink; have a drink! I'll go and put things straight in the cellar myself.

NIKTA (rouses himself). Is there any drink left? Perhaps I can drink it off!

[Exit.

[ANSYA, who has stood all the time by the door, silently makes way for him.

MATRYNA. Go, go, honey, and I'll set to work! I'll go down myself and dig! Where has he thrown the spade to? (Finds the spade, and goes down into the cellar.) Ansya, come here! Hold the light, will you?

ANSYA. And what of him?

MATRYNA. He's so frightened! You've been too hard with him. Leave him alone, he'll come to his senses. God help him! I'll set to work myself. Put the lantern down here. I can see.

[MATRYNA disappears into the cellar.

ANSYA. (looking towards the door by which Nikta entered the hut). Well, have you had enough spree? You've been puffing yourself up, but now you'll know how it feels! You'll lose some of your bluster!

NIKTA (rushes out of the hut towards the cellar). Mother! Mother, I say!

MATRYNA (puts out her head). What is it, sonny?

NIKTA (listening) Don't bury it, it's alive? Don't you hear? Alive! There—it's whimpering! There ... quite plain!

MATRYNA. How can it whimper? Why, you've flattened it into a pancake! The whole head is smashed to bits!

NIKTA. What is it then? (Stops his ears.) It's still whimpering! I am lost! Lost! What have they done with me?... Where shall I go?

[Sits down on the step.

CURTAIN

* * * * *

VARIATION

Instead of the end of Act IV. (from the words, "ANSYA. I'll find one. I know how to do it. [Exit]") the following variation may be read, and is the one usually acted.

* * * * *

SCENE II

The interior of the hut as in Act I.

NAN lies on the bench, and is covered with a coat. MTRITCH is sitting on the oven smoking.

MTRITCH. Dear me! How they've made the place smell I Drat 'em! They've been spilling the fine stuff. Even tobacco don't get rid of the smell! It keeps tickling one's nose so. Oh Lord! But it's bedtime, I guess.

[Approaches the lamp to put it out.

NAN (jumps up, and remains sitting up). Daddy dear,[7] don't put it out!

MTRITCH. Not put it out? Why?

NAN. Didn't you hear them making a row in the yard? (Listens.) D'you hear, there in the barn again now?

MTRITCH. What's that to you? I guess no one's asked you to mind! Lie down and sleep! And I'll turn down the light.

[Turns down lamp.

NAN. Daddy darling! Don't put it right out; leave a little bit if only as big as a mouse's eye, else it's so frightening!

MTRITCH (laughs). All right, all right. (Sits down by her.) What's there to be afraid of?

NAN. How can one help being frightened, daddy! Sister did go on so! She was beating her head against the box! (Whispers.) You know, I know ... a little baby is going to be born.... It's already born, I think....

MTRITCH. Eh, what a little busybody it is! May the frogs tick her! Must needs know everything. Lie down and sleep! (NAN lies down.) That's right! (Tucks her up.) That's right! There now, if you know too much you'll grow old too soon.

NAN. And you are going to lie on the oven?

Mitrich. Well, of course! What a little silly you are, now I come to look at you! Must needs know everything. (Tucks her up again, then stands up to go.) There now, lie still and sleep!

[Goes up to the oven.

NAN. It gave just one cry, and now there's nothing to be heard.

MTRITCH. Oh Lord! Gracious Nicholas! What is it you can't hear?

NAN. The baby.

MTRITCH. There is none, that's why you can't hear it.

NAN. But I heard it! Blest if I didn't hear it! Such a thin voice!

MTRITCH. Heard indeed! Much you heard! Well, if you know,—why then it was just such a little girl as you that the bogey popped into his bag and made off with.

NAN. What bogey?

MTRITCH. Why, just his very self! (Climbs up on to the oven.) The oven is beautifully warm to-night. Quite a treat! Oh Lord! Gracious Nicholas!

NAN. Daddy! are you going to sleep?

MTRITCH. What else? Do you think I'm going to sing songs?

[Silence.

NAN. Daddy! Daddy, I say! They are digging! they're digging—don't you hear? Blest if they're not, they're digging!

MTRITCH. What are you dreaming about? Digging! Digging in the night! Who's digging? The cow's rubbing herself, that's all. Digging indeed! Go to sleep I tell you, else I'll just put out the light!

NAN. Daddy darling, don't put it out! I won't ... truly, truly, I won't. It's so frightful!

MTRITCH. Frightful? Don't be afraid and then it won't be frightful. Look at her, she's afraid, and then says it's frightful. How can it help being frightful if you are afraid? Eh, what a stupid little girl!

[Silence. The cricket chirps.

NAN (whispers). Daddy! I say, daddy! Are you asleep?

MTRITCH. Now then, what d'you want?

NAN. What's the bogey like?

MTRITCH. Why, like this! When he finds such a one as you, who won't sleep, he comes with a sack and pops the girl into it, then in he gets himself, head and all, lifts her dress, and gives her a fine whipping!

NAN. What with?

MTRITCH. He takes a birch-broom with him.

NAN. But he can't see there—inside the sack!

MTRITCH. He'll see, no fear!

NAN. But I'll bite him.

MTRITCH. No, friend, him you can't bite!

NAN. Daddy, there's some one coming! Who is it? Oh gracious goodness! Who can it be?

MTRITCH. Well, if some one's coming, let them come! What's the matter with you? I suppose it's your mother!

[Enter ANSYA.

ANSYA (NAN pretends to be asleep). Mtritch!

MTRITCH. What?

ANSYA. What's the lamp burning for? We are going to sleep in the summer-hut.

MTRITCH. Why, you see I've only just got straight. I'll put the light out all right.

ANSYA (rummages in her box and grumbles). When a thing's wanted one never can find it!

MTRITCH. Why, what is it you are looking for?

ANSYA. I'm looking for a cross. Suppose it were to die unbaptized! It would be a sin, you know!

MTRITCH. Of course it would! Everything in due order.... Have you found it?

ANSYA. Yes, I've found it.

[Exit.

MTRITCH. That's right, else I'd have lent her mine. Oh Lord!

NAN (jumps up trembling). Oh, oh, daddy! Don't go to sleep; for goodness' sake, don't! It's so frightful!

MTRITCH. What's frightful?

NAN. It will die—the little baby will! At Aunt Irene's the old woman also baptized the baby, and it died!

MTRITCH. If it dies, they'll bury it!

NAN. But maybe it wouldn't have died, only old Granny Matryna's there! Didn't I hear what granny was saying? I heard her! Blest if I didn't!

MTRITCH. What did you hear? Go to sleep, I tell you. Cover yourself up, head and all, and let's have an end of it!

NAN. If it lived, I'd nurse it!

MTRITCH (roars). Oh Lord!

NAN. Where will they put it?

MTRITCH. In the right place! It's no business of yours! Go to sleep I tell you, else mother will come; she'll give it you!

[Silence.

NAN. Daddy! Eh, daddy! That girl, you know, you were telling about —they didn't kill her?

MTRITCH. That girl? Oh yes. That girl turned out all right!

NAN. How was it? You were saying you found her?

MTRITCH. Well, we just found her!

NAN. But where did you find her? Do tell!

MTRITCH. Why, in their own house; that's where! We came to a village, the soldiers began hunting about in the house, when suddenly there's that same little girl lying on the floor, flat on her stomach. We were going to give her a knock on the head, but all at once I felt that sorry, that I took her up in my arms; but no, she wouldn't let me! Made herself so heavy, quite a hundredweight, and caught hold where she could with her hands, so that one couldn't get them off! Well, so I began stroking her head. It was so bristly,—just like a hedgehog! So I stroked and stroked, and she quieted down at last. I soaked a bit of rusk and gave it her. She understood that, and began nibbling. What were we to do with her? We took her; took her, and began feeding and feeding her, and she got so used to us that we took her with us on the march, and so she went about with us. Ah, she was a fine girl!

NAN. Yes, and not baptized?

MTRITCH. Who can tell! They used to say, not altogether. 'Cos why, those people weren't our own.

NAN. Germans?

MTRITCH. What an idea! Germans! Not Germans, but Asiatics. They are just the same as Jews, but still not Jews. Polish, yet Asiatics. Curls ... or, Curdlys is their name.... I've forgotten what it is![8] We called the girl Sshka. She was a fine girl, Sshka was! There now, I've forgotten everything I used to know! But that girl—the deuce take her—seems to be before my eyes now! Out of all my time of service, I remember how they flogged me, and I remember that girl. That's all I remember! She'd hang round one's neck, and one 'ud carry her so. That was a girl,—if you wanted a better you'd not find one! We gave her away afterwards. The captain's wife took her to bring up as her daughter. So—she was all right! How sorry the soldiers were to let her go!

NAN. There now, daddy, and I remember when father was dying,—you were not living with us then. Well, he called Nikta and says, "Forgive me, Nikta!" he says, and begins to cry. (Sighs.) That also felt very sad!

MTRITCH. Yes; there now, so it is....

NAN. Daddy! Daddy, I say! There they are again, making a noise in the cellar! Oh gracious heavens! Oh dear! Oh dear! Oh, daddy! They'll do something to it! They'll make away with it, and it's so little! Oh, oh!

[Covers up her head and cries.

MTRITCH (listening). Really they're up to some villainy, blow them to shivers! Oh, these women are vile creatures! One can't say much for men either; but women!... They are like wild beasts, and stick at nothing!

NAN (rising). Daddy; I say, daddy!

MTRITCH. Well, what now?

NAN. The other day a traveller stayed the night; he said that when an infant died its soul goes up straight to heaven. Is that true?

MTRITCH. Who can tell? I suppose so. Well?

NAN. Oh, it would be best if I died too.

[Whimpers.

MTRITCH. Then you'd be off the list!

NAN. Up to ten one's an infant, and maybe one's soul would go to God. Else one's sure to go to the bad!

MTRITCH. And how to the bad? How should the likes of you not go to the bad? Who teaches you? What do you see? What do you hear? Only vileness! I, though I've not been taught much, still know a thing or two. I'm not quite like a peasant woman. A peasant woman, what is she? Just mud! There are many millions of the likes of you in Russia, and all as blind as moles—knowing nothing! All sorts of spells: how to stop the cattle-plague with a plough, and how to cure children by putting them under the perches in the hen-house! That's what they know!

NAN. Yes, mother also did that!

MTRITCH. Yes,—there it is,—just so! So many millions of girls and women, and all like beasts in a forest! As she grows up, so she dies! Never sees anything; never hears anything. A peasant,—he may learn something at the pub, or maybe in prison, or in the army,—as I did. But a woman? Let alone about God, she doesn't even know rightly what Friday it is! Friday! Friday! But ask her what's Friday? She don't know! They're like blind puppies, creeping about and poking their noses into the dungheap.... All they know are their silly songs. Ho, ho, ho, ho! But what they mean by ho-ho, they don't know themselves!

NAN. But I, daddy, I do know half the Lord's Prayer!

MTRITCH. A lot you know! But what Can one expect of you? Who teaches you? Only a tipsy peasant—with the strap perhaps! That's all the teaching you get! I don't know who'll have to answer for you. For a recruit, the drill-sergeant or the corporal has to answer; but for the likes of you there's no one responsible! Just as the cattle that have no herdsman are the most mischievous, so with you women—you are the stupidest class! The most foolish class is yours!

NAN. Then what's one to do?

MTRITCH. That's what one has to do.... You just cover up your head and sleep! Oh Lord!

[Silence. The cricket chirps.

NAN (jumps up). Daddy! Some one's screaming awfully! Blest if some one isn't screaming! Daddy darling, it's coming here!

MTRITCH. Cover up your head, I tell you!

[Enter NIKTA, followed by MATRYNA.

NIKTA. What have they done with me? What have they done with me?

MATRYNA. Have a drop, honey; have a drop of drink! What's the matter?

[Fetches the spirits and sets the bottle before him.

NIKTA. Give it here! Perhaps the drink will help me!

MATRYNA. Mind! They're not asleep! Here you are, have a drop!

NIKTA. What does it all mean? Why did you plan it? You might have taken it somewhere!

MATRYNA (whispers). Sit still a bit and drink a little more, or have a smoke. It will ease your thoughts!

NIKTA. My own mother! My turn seems to have come! How it began to whimper, and how the little bones crunched ... krr.... I'm not a man now!

MATRYNA. Eh, now, what's the use of talking so silly! Of course it does seem fearsome at night, but wait till the daylight comes, and a day or two passes, and you'll forget to think of it!

[Goes up to NIKTA and puts her hand on his shoulder.

NIKTA. Go away from me! What have you done with me?

MATRYNA. Come, come, sonny! Now, really, what's the matter with you?

[Takes his hand.

NIKTA. Go away from me! I'll kill you! It's all one to me now! I'll kill you!

MATRYNA. Oh, oh, how frightened he's got! You should go and have a sleep now!

NIKTA. I have nowhere to go; I'm lost!

MATRYNA (shaking her head). Oh, oh, I'd better go and tidy things up. He'll sit and rest a bit, and it will pass!

[Exit.

[NIKTA sits with his face in his hands. MTRITCH and NAN seem stunned.

NIKTA. It's whining! It's whining! It is really—there, there, quite plain! She'll bury it, really she will! (Runs to the door.) Mother, don't bury it, it's alive....

[Enter MATRYNA.

MATRYNA (whispers). Now then, what is it? Heaven help you! Why won't you get to rest? How can it be alive? All its bones are crushed!

NIKTA. Give me more drink.

[Drinks.

MATRYNA. Now go, sonny. You'll fall asleep now all right.

NIKTA (stands listening). Still alive ... there ... it's whining! Don't you hear?... There!

MATRYNA (whispers). No! I tell you!

NIKTA. Mother! My own mother! I've ruined my life! What have you done with me? Where am I to go?

[Runs out of the hut; MATRYNA follows him.

NAN. Daddy dear, darling, they've smothered it!

MTRITCH (angrily). Go to sleep, I tell you! Oh dear, may the frogs kick you! I'll give it to you with the broom! Go to sleep, I tell you!

NAN. Daddy, my treasure! Something is catching hold of my shoulders, something is catching hold with its paws! Daddy dear ... really, really ... I must go! Daddy, darling! let me get up on the oven with you! Let me, for Heaven's sake! Catching hold ... catching hold! Oh!

[Runs to the stove.

MTRITCH. See how they've frightened the girl.... What vile creatures they are! May the frogs kick them! Well then, climb up. Nan (climbs on oven). But don't you go away! Mtritch. Where should I go to? Climb up, climb up! Oh Lord! Gracious Nicholas! Holy Mother!... How they have frightened the girl. (Covers her up.) There's a little fool— really a little fool! How they've frightened her; really, they are vile creatures! The deuce take 'em!

CURTAIN



ACT V

SCENE I

In front of scene a stack-stand, to the left a thrashing ground, to the right a barn. The barn doors are open. Straw is strewn about in the doorway. The hut with yard and out-buildings is seen in the background, whence proceed sounds of singing and of a tambourine. Two GIRLS are walking past the barn towards the hut.

FIRST GIRL. There, you see we've managed to pass without so much as getting our boots dirty! But to come by the street is terribly muddy! (Stop and wipe their boots on the straw. FIRST GIRL looks at the straw and sees something .) What's that?

SECOND GIRL (looks where the straw lies and sees some one). It's MTRITCH, their laborer. Just look how drunk he is!

FIRST GIRL. Why, I thought be didn't drink.

SECOND GIRL. It seems he didn't, until it was going around. First Girl. Just see! He must have come to fetch some straw. Look! he's got a rope in his hand, and he's fallen asleep.

SECOND GIRL (listening). They're still singing the praises.[9] So I s'pose the bride and bridegroom have not yet been blessed! They say Akoulna didn't even lament![10]

FIRST GIRL. Mammie says she is marrying against her will. Her stepfather threatened her, or else she'd not have done it for the world! Why, you know what they've been saying about her?

MARNA (catching up the GIRLS). How d'you you do, lassies?

GIRLS. How d'you do?

MARNA. Going to the wedding, my dears?

FIRST GIRL. It's nearly over! We've come just to have a look.

MARNA. Would you call my old man for me? Simon, from Zoevo; but surely you know him?

FIRST GIRL. To be sure we do; he's a relative of the bridegroom's, I think?

MARNA. Of course; he's my old man's nephew, the bridegroom is.

SECOND GIRL. Why don't you go yourself? Fancy not going to a wedding!

MARNA. I have no mind for it, and no time either. It's time for us to be going home. We didn't mean to come to the wedding. We were taking oats to town. We only stopped to feed the horse, and they made my old man go in.

FIRST GIRL. Where did you put up then? At Fydoritch's?

MARNA. Yes. Well then, I'll stay here and you go and call him, my dear—my old man. Call him, my pet, and say "Your missis, Marna, says you must go now!" His mates are harnessing.

FIRST GIRL. Well, all right—if you won't go in yourself.

[The GIRLS go away towards the house along a footpath. Sounds of songs and tambourine.

MARNA (alone, stands thinking). I might go in, but I don't like to, because I have not met him since that day he threw me over. It's more than a year now. But I'd have liked to have a peep and see how he lives with his Ansya. People say they don't get on. She's a coarse woman, and with a character of her own. I should think he's remembered me more than once. He's been caught by the idea of a comfortable life and has changed me for it. But, God help him, I don't cherish ill-will! Then it hurt! Oh dear, it was pain! But now it's worn away and been forgotten. But I'd like to have seen him. (Looks towards hut and sees NIKTA.) Look there! Why, he is coming here! Have the girls told him? How's it he has left his guests? I'll go away! (NIKTA approaches, hanging his head down, swinging his arms, and muttering.) And how sullen he looks!

NIKTA (sees and recognises MARNA). Marna, dearest friend, little MARNA, what do you want?

MARNA. I have come for my old man.

NIKTA. Why didn't you come to the wedding? You might have had a look round, and a laugh at my expense!

MARNA. What have I to laugh at? I've come for my husband.

NIKTA. Ah, Marna dear!

[Tries to embrace her.

MARNA (steps angrily aside). You'd better drop that sort of thing, Nikta! What has been is past! I've come for my husband. Is he in your house?

NIKTA. So I must not remember the past? You won't let me?

MARNA. It's no use recalling the past! What used to be is over now!

NIKTA. And can never come back, you mean?

MARNA. And will never come back! But why have you gone away? You, the master,—and to go away from the feast!

NIKTA (sits down on the straw). Why have I gone away? Eh, if you knew, if you had any idea.... I'm dull, Marna, so dull that I wish my eyes would not see! I rose from the table and left them, to get away from the people. If I could only avoid seeing any one!

MARNA (coming nearer to him). How's that?

NIKTA. This is how it is: when I eat, it's there! When I drink, it's there! When I sleep, it's there! I'm so sick of it—so sick! But it's chiefly because I'm all alone that I'm so sick, Marna. I have no one to share my trouble.

MARNA. You can't live your life without trouble, Nikta. However, I've wept over mine and wept it away.

NIKTA. The former, the old trouble! Ah, dear friend, you've wept yours away, and I've got mine up to there!

[Puts his hand to his throat.

MARNA. But why?

NIKTA. Why, I'm sick of my whole life! I am sick of myself! Ah, MARNA, why did you not know how to keep me? You've ruined me, and yourself too! Is this life?

MARNA (stands by the barn crying, but restrains herself). I do not complain of my life, Nikta! God grant every one a life like mine. I do not complain. I confessed to my old man at the time, and he forgave me. And he does not reproach me. I'm not discontented with my life. The old man is quiet, and is fond of me, and I keep his children clothed and washed! He is really kind to me. Why should I complain? It seems God willed it so. And what's the matter with your life? You are rich....

NIKTA. My life!... It's only that I don't wish to disturb the wedding feast, or I'd take this rope here (takes hold of the rope on the straw) and throw it across that rafter there. Then I'd make a noose and stretch it out, and I'd climb on to that rafter and jump down with my head in the noose! That's what my life is!

MARNA. That's enough! Lord help you!

NIKTA. You think I'm joking? You think I'm drunk? I'm not drunk! To-day even drink takes no hold on me! I'm devoured by misery! Misery is eating me up completely, so that I care for nothing! Oh little Marna, it's only with you I ever lived! Do you remember how we used to while away the nights together at the railway?

MARNA. Don't you rub the sores, Nikta! I'm bound legally now, and you too. My sin has been forgiven, don't disturb...

NIKTA. What shall I do with my heart? Where am I to turn to?

MARNA. What's there to be done? You've got a wife. Don't go looking at others, but keep to your own! You loved Ansya, then go on loving her!

NIKTA. Oh, that Ansya, she's gall and wormwood to me, but she's round my feet like rank weeds!

MARNA. Whatever she is, still she's your wife.... But what's the use of talking; you'd better go to your visitors, and send my husband to me.

NIKTA. Oh dear, if you knew the whole business... but there's no good talking!

[Enter MARNA'S husband, red and tipsy, and NAN.

MARNA'S HUSBAND. Marna! Missis! My old woman! are you here?

NIKTA. There's your husband calling you. Go!

MARNA. And you?

NIKTA. I? I'll lie down here for a bit!

[Lies down on the straw.

Husband. Where is she then?

NAN. There she is, near the barn.

HUSBAND. What are you standing there for? Come to the feast! The hosts want you to come and do them honor! The wedding party is just going to start, and then we can go too.

MARNA (going towards her husband). I didn't want to go in.

HUSBAND. Come on, I tell you! You'll drink a glass to our nephew Peter's health, the rascal! Else the hosts might take offense! There's plenty of time for our business.

[MARNA'S husband puts his arm around her, and goes reeling out with her.

NIKTA (rises and sits down on the straw). Ah, now that I've seen her, life seems more sickening than ever! It was only with her that I ever really lived! I've ruined my life for nothing! I've done for myself! (Lies down.) Where can I go? If mother earth would but open and swallow me!

NAN (sees NIKTA, and runs towards him). Daddy, I say, daddy! They're looking for you! Her godfather and all of them have already blessed her. Truly they have, they're getting cross!

NIKTA (aside). Where can I go to?

NAN. What? What are you saying?

NIKTA. I'm not saying anything! Don't bother!

NAN. Daddy! Come, I say! (NIKTA is silent, NAN pulls him by the hand.) Dad, go and bless them! My word, they're angry, they're grumbling!

NIKTA (drags away his hand). Leave me alone!

NAN. Now then!

NIKTA (threatens her with the rope). Go, I say! I'll give it you!

NAN. Then I'll send mother!

[Runs away.

NIKTA (rises). How can I go? How can I take the holy icn in my hands? How am I to look her in the face! (Lies down again.) Oh, if there were a hole in the ground, I'd jump in! No one should see me, and I should see no one! (Rises again.) No, I shan't go.... May they all go to the devil, I shan't go! (Takes the rope and makes a noose, and tries it on his neck.) That's the way!

[Enter MATRYNA. NIKTA sees his mother, takes the rope off his neck, and again lies down in the straw.

MATRYNA (comes in hurriedly). Nikta! Nikta, I say! He don't even answer! Nikta, what's the matter? Have you had a drop too much? Come, Nikta dear; come, honey! The people are tired of waiting.

NIKTA. Oh dear, what have you done with me? I'm a lost man!

MATRYNA. But what is the matter then? Come, my own; come, give them your blessing, as is proper and honorable, and then it'll all be over! Why, the people are waiting!

NIKTA. How can I give blessings?

MATRYNA. Why, in the usual way! Don't you know?

NIKTA. I know, I know! But who is it I am to bless? What have I done to her?

MATRYNA. What have you done? Eh, now he's going to remember it! Why, who knows anything about it? Not a soul! And the girl is going of her own accord.

NIKTA. Yes, but how?

MATRYNA. Because she's afraid, of course. But still she's going. Besides, what's to be done now? She should have thought sooner! Now she can't refuse. And his kinsfolks can't take offense either. They saw the girl twice, and get money with her too! It's all safe and sound!

NIKTA. Yes, but what's in the cellar?

MATRYNA (laughs). In the cellar? Why, cabbages, mushrooms, potatoes, I suppose! Why remember the past?

NIKTA. I'd be only too glad to forget it; but I can't! When I let my mind go, it's just as if I heard.... Oh, what have you done with me?

MATRYNA. Now, what are you humbugging for?

NIKTA (turns face downward). Mother! Don't torment me! I've got it up to there!

[Puts his hand to his throat.

MATRYNA. Still it has to be done! As it is, people are talking. "The master's gone away and won't come; he can't make up his mind to give his blessing." They'll be putting two and two together. As soon as they see you're frightened they'll begin guessing. "The thief none suspect who walks bold and erect!" But you'll be getting out of the frying-pan into the fire! Above all, lad, don't show it; don't lose courage, else they'll find out all the more!

NIKTA. Oh dear! You have snared me into a trap!

MATRYNA. That'll do, I tell you; come along! Come in and give your blessing, as is right and honorable;—and there's an end of the matter!

NIKTA (lies face down). I can't!

MATRYNA (aside). What has come over him? He seemed all right, and suddenly this comes over him! It seems he's bewitched! Get up, Nikta! See! There's Ansya coming; she's left her guests!

[ANSYA enters, dressed up, red and tipsy.

ANSYA. Oh, how nice it is, mother! So nice, so respectable! And how the people are pleased.... But where is he?

MATRYNA. Here, honey, he's here; he's laid down on the straw and there he lies! He won't come!

NIKTA (looking at his wife). Just see, she's tipsy too! When I look at her my heart seems to turn! How can one live with her? (Turns on his face.) I'll kill her some day! It'll be worse then!

ANSYA. Only look, how he's got all among the straw! Is it the drink? (Laughs.) I'd not mind lying down there with you, but I've no time! Come, I'll lead you! It is so nice in the house! It's a treat to look on! A concertina! And the women singing so well! All tipsy! Everything so respectable, so nice!

NIKTA. What's nice?

ANSYA. The wedding—such a jolly wedding! They all say it's quite an uncommon fine wedding. All so respectable, so nice! Come along! We'll go together! I have had a drop, but I can give you a hand yet!

[Takes his hand.

NIKTA. (pulls it back with disgust). Go alone! I'll come!

ANSYA. What, are you humbugging for? We've got rid of all the bother, we've got rid of her as came between us; now we have nothing to do but to live and be merry! And all so respectable, and quite legal! I'm so pleased! I have no words for it! It's just as if I were going to marry you over again! And oh, the people, they are pleased! They're all thanking us! And the guests are all of the best: Ivn Mosvitch is there, and the Police Officer; they've also been singing songs of praise!

NIKTA. Then you should have stayed with them! What have you come for?

ANSYA. True enough, I must go back! Else what does it look like! The hosts both go and leave the visitors! And the guests are all of the best!

NIKTA (gets up and brushes the straw off himself). Go, and I'll come at once!

MATRYNA. Just see! He listens to the young bird, but wouldn't listen to the old one! He would not hear me, but he follows his wife at once! (MATRYNA and ANSYA turn to go.) Well, are you coming?

NIKTA. I'll come directly! You go and I'll follow! I'll come and give my blessing! (The women stop.) Go on! I'll follow! Now then, go! (Exit women. Sits down and takes his boots off.) Yes, I'm going! A likely thing! No, you'd better look at the rafter for me! I'll fix the noose and jump with it from the rafter, then you can look for me! And the rope is here just handy. (Ponders.) I'd have got over it, over any sorrow—I'd have got over that. But this now—here it is, deep in my heart, and I can't get over it! (Looks towards the yard.) Surely she's not coming back? (Imitates ANSYA.) "So nice, so nice. I'd lie down here with you." Oh, the baggage! Well, then, here I am! Come and cuddle when they've taken me down from the rafter! There's only one way!

[Takes the rope and pulls it.

[MTRITCH, who is tipsy, sits up and won't let go of the rope.

MTRITCH. Shan't give it up! Shan't give it to no one! I'll bring it myself! I said I'd bring the straw—and so I will! Nikta, is that you? (Laughs.) Oh, the devil! Have you come to get the straw?

NIKTA. Give me the rope!

Mtrich. No, you wait a bit! The peasants sent me! I'll bring it.... (Rises to his feet and begins getting the straw together, but reels for a time, then falls.) It has beaten me. It's stronger....

NIKTA. Give me the rope!

MTRITCH. Didn't I say I won't! Oh, Nikta, you're as stupid as a hog! (Laughs.) I love you, but you're a fool! You see that I'm drunk ... devil take you! You think I need you?... You just look at me; I'm a Non ... fool, can't say it—Non-commissioned Officer of Her Majesty's very First Regiment of Grenadier Guards! I've served Tsar and country, loyal and true! But who am I? You think I'm a warrior? No, I'm not a warrior; I'm the very least of men, a poor lost orphan! I swore not to drink, and now I had a smoke, and.... Well then, do you think I'm afraid of you? No fear; I'm afraid of no man! I've taken to drink, and I'll drink! Now I'll go it for a fortnight; I'll go it hard! I'll drink my last shirt; I'll drink my cap; I'll pawn my passport; and I'm afraid of no one! They flogged me in the army to stop me drinking! They switched and switched! "Well," they say, "will you leave off?" "No," says I! Why should I be afraid of them? Here I am! Such as I am, God made me! I swore off drinking, and didn't drink. Now I've took to drink, and I'll drink! And I fear no man! 'Cos I don't lie; but just as.... Why should one mind them—such muck as they are! "Here you are," I say; that's me. A priest told me, the devil's the biggest bragger! "As soon," says he, "as you begin to brag, you get frightened; and as soon as you fear men then the hoofed one just collars you and pushes you where he likes!" But as I don't fear men, I'm easy! I can spit in the devil's beard, and at the sow his mother! He can't do me no harm! There, put that in your pipe!

NIKTA (crossing himself). True enough! What was I about?

[Throws down the rope.

MTRITCH. What?

NIKTA (rises). You tell me not to fear men?

MTRITCH. Why fear such muck as they are? You look at 'em in the bath-house! All made of one paste! One has a bigger belly, another a smaller; that's all the difference there is! Fancy being afraid of 'em! Deuce take 'em!

MATRYNA (from the yard). Well, are you coming?

NIKTA. Ah! Better so! I'm coming!

[Goes towards yard.

SCENE II

Interior of hut, full of people, some sitting round tables and others standing. In the front corner AKOULNA and the BRIDEGROOM. On one of the tables an Icon and a loaf of rye-bread. Among the visitors are MARNA, her husband, and a POLICE OFFICER, also a HIRED DRIVER, the MATCHMAKER, and the BEST MAN. The women are singing. ANSYA carries round the drink. The singing stops.

THE DRIVER. If we are to go, let's go! The church ain't so near.

THE BEST MAN. All right; you wait a bit till the step-father has given his blessing. But where is he?

ANSYA. He is coming—coming at once, dear friends! Have another glass, all of you; don't refuse!

THE MATCHMAKER. Why is he so long? We've been waiting such a time!

ANSYA. He's coming; coming directly, coming in no time! He'll be here before one could plait a girl's hair who's had her hair cropped! Drink, friends! (Offers the drink.) Coming at once! Sing again, my pets, meanwhile!

THE DRIVER. They've sung all their songs, waiting here!

[The women sing. NIKTA and AKM enter during the singing.

NIKTA (holds his father's arm and pushes him in before him). Go, father; I can't do without you!

AKM. I don't like—I mean what d'ye call it....

NIKTA (to the women). Enough! Be quiet! (Looks round the hut.) Marna, are you there?

THE MATCHMAKER. Go, take the icn, and give them your blessing!

NIKTA. Wait a while! (Looks round.) Akoulna, are you there?

MATCHMAKER. What are you calling everybody for? Where should she be? How queer he seems!

ANSYA. Gracious goodness! Why, he's barefoot!

NIKTA. Father, you are here! Look at me! Christian Commune, you are all here, and I am here! I am....

[Falls on his knees.

ANSYA. Nikta, darling, what's the matter with you? Oh, my head, my head!

MATCHMAKER. Here's a go!

MATRYNA. I did say he was taking too much of that French wine! Come to your senses; what are you about?

[They try to lift him; he takes no heed of them, but looks in front of him.

NIKTA. Christian Commune! I have sinned, and I wish to confess!

MATRYNA (shakes him by the shoulder). Are you mad? Dear friends, he's gone crazy! He must be taken away!

NIKTA (shakes her off). Leave me alone! And you, father, hear me! And first, Marna, look here! (Bows to the ground to her and rises.) I have sinned towards you! I promised to marry you, I tempted you, and forsook you! Forgive me, in Christ's name!

[Again bows to the ground before her.

ANSYA. And what are you drivelling about? It's not becoming! No one wants to know! Get up! It's like your impudence!

MATRYNA. Oh, oh, he's bewitched! And however did it happen? It's a spell! Get up! what nonsense are you jabbering?

[Pulls him.

NIKTA (shakes his head). Don't touch me! Forgive me my sin towards you, Marna! Forgive me, for Christ's sake!

[MARNA covers her face with her hands in silence.

ANSYA. Get up, I tell you! Don't be so impudent! What are you thinking about—to recall it? Enough humbug! It's shameful! Oh my poor head! He's quite crazy!

NIKTA (pushes his wife away and turns to AKOULNA). Akoulna, now I'll speak to you! Listen, Christian Commune! I'm a fiend, Akoulna! I have sinned against you! Your father died no natural death! He was poisoned!

ANSYA (screams). Oh my head! What's he about?

MATRYNA. The man's beside himself! Lead him away!

[The folk come up and try to seize him.

AKM (motions them back with his arms). Wait! You lads, what d'ye call it, wait, I mean!

NIKTA. Akoulna, I poisoned him! Forgive me, in Christ's name!

AKOULNA (jumps up). He's telling lies! I know who did it!

MATCHMAKER. What are you about? You sit still!

AKM. Oh Lord, what sins, what sins!

POLICE OFFICER. Seize him, and send for the Elder! We must draw up an indictment and have witnesses to it! Get up and come here!

AKM (to POLICE OFFICER). Now you—with the bright buttons—I mean, you wait! Let him, what d'ye call it, speak out, I mean!

POLICE OFFICER. Mind, old man, and don't interfere! I have to draw up an indictment!

AKM. Eh, what a fellow you are; wait, I say! Don't talk, I mean, about, what d'ye call it, 'ditements' Here God's work is being done.... A man is confessing, I mean! And you, what d'ye call it ... 'ditements!

POLICE OFFICER. The Elder!

AKM. Let God's work be done, I mean, and then you. I mean you, do your business!

NIKTA. And, Akoulna, my sin is great towards you; I seduced you; forgive me in Christ's name!

[Bows to the ground before her.

AKOULNA (leaves the table). Let me go! I shan't be married! He told me to, but I shan't now!

POLICE OFFICER. Repeat what you have said.

NIKTA. Wait, sir, let me finish!

AKM (with rapture). Speak, my son! Tell everything—you'll feel better! Confess to God, don't fear men! God—God! It is He!

NIKTA. I poisoned the father, dog that I am, and I ruined the daughter! She was in my power, and I ruined her, and her baby!

AKOULNA. True, that's true!

NIKTA. I smothered the baby in the cellar with a board! I sat on it and smothered it—and its bones crunched! (Weeps.) And I buried it! I did it, all alone!

AKOULNA. He raves! I told him to!

NIKTA. Don't shield me! I fear no one now! Forgive me, Christian Commune!

[Bows to the ground.

[Silence.

POLICE OFFICER. Bind him! The marriage is evidently off!

[Men come up with their belts.

NIKTA. Wait, there's plenty of time! (Bows to the ground before his father.) Father, dear father, forgive me too,—fiend that I am! You told me from the first, when I took to bad ways, you said then, "If a claw is caught, the bird is lost!" I would not listen to your words, dog that I was, and it has turned out as you said! Forgive me, for Christ's sake!

AKM (rapturously). God will forgive you, my own son! (Embraces him.) You have had no mercy on yourself; He will show mercy on you! God— God! It is He!

[Enter ELDER.

ELDER. There are witnesses enough here.

POLICE OFFICER. We will have the examination at once.

[NIKTA is bound.

AKOULNA. (goes and stands by his side). I shall tell the truth! Ask me!

NIKTA (bound). No need to ask! I did it all myself. The design was mine, and the deed was mine. Take me where you like. I will say no more!

CURTAIN



FOOTNOTES FOR THE POWER OF DARKNESS

1. It is customary to place a dying person under the icn. One or more icns hang in the hut of each Orthodox peasant.

2. Peasant weddings are usually in autumn. They are forbidden in Lent, and soon after Easter the peasants become too busy to marry till harvest is over.

3. A formal request for forgiveness is customary among Russians, but it is often no mere formality. Nikta's first reply is evasive; his second reply, "God will forgive you," is the correct one sanctioned by custom.

4. Loud public wailing of this kind is customary, and considered indispensable, among the peasants.

5. Where not otherwise mentioned in the stage directions, it is always the winter half of the hut that is referred to as "the hut." The summer half is not heated, and not used in winter under ordinary circumstances.

6. The Foundlings' Hospital in Moscow, where 80 to 90 percent of the children die.

7. Nan calls Mtritch "daddy" merely as a term of endearment.

8. Probably Kurds

9. This refers to the songs customary at the wedding of Russian peasants, praising the bride and bridegroom.

10. It is etiquette for a bride to bewail the approaching loss of her maidenhood.

END OF THE POWER OF DARKNESS

* * * * *

FRUITS OF CULTURE



CHARACTERS

LEOND FYDORITCH ZVEZDNTSEF. A retired Lieutenant of the Horse Guards. Owner of more than 60,000 acres of land in various provinces. A fresh-looking, bland, agreeable gentleman of 60. Believes in Spiritualism, and likes to astonish people with his wonderful stories.

ANNA PVLOVNA ZVEZDNTSEVA. Wife of Leond. Stout; pretends to be young; quite taken up with the conventionalities of life; despises her husband, and blindly believes in her doctor. Very irritable.

BETSY. Their daughter. A young woman of 20, fast, tries to be mannish, wears a pince-nez, flirts and giggles. Speaks very quickly and distinctly.

VASLY LEONDITCH ZVEZDNTSEF. Their son, aged 25; has studied law, but has no definite occupation. Member of the Cycling Club, Jockey Club, and of the Society for Promoting the Breeding of Hounds. Enjoys perfect health, and has imperturbable self-assurance. Speaks loud and abruptly. Is either perfectly serious—almost morose, or is noisily gay and laughs loud. Is nicknamed Vovo.

ALEXY VLADMIROVITCH KROUGOSVTLOF. A professor and scientist of about 50, with quiet and pleasantly self-possessed manners, and quiet, deliberate, harmonious speech. Likes to talk. Is mildly disdainful of those who do not agree with him. Smokes much. Is lean and active.

THE DOCTOR. About 40. Healthy, fat, red-faced, loud-voiced, and rough; with a self-satisfied smile constantly on his lips.

MRYA KONSTANTNOVNA. A girl of 20, from the Conservatoire, teacher of music. Wears a fringe, and is super-fashionably dressed. Obsequious, and gets easily confused.

PETRSTCHEF. About 28; has taken his degree in philology, and is looking out for a position. Member of the same clubs as Vasly Leonditch, and also of the Society for the Organisation of Calico Balls. [1] Is bald-headed, quick in movement and speech, and very polite.

THE BARONESS. A pompous lady of about 50, slow in her movements, speaks with monotonous intonation.

THE PRINCESS. A society woman, a visitor.

HER DAUGHTER. An affected young society woman, a visitor.

THE COUNTESS. An ancient dame, with false hair and teeth. Moves with great difficulty.

GROSSMAN. A dark, nervous, lively man of Jewish type. Speaks very loud.

THE FAT LADY: MRYA VASLYEVNA TOLBOHINA. A very distinguished, rich, and kindly woman, acquainted with all the notable people of the last and present generations. Very stout. Speaks hurriedly, trying to be heard above every one else. Smokes.

BARON KLNGEN (nicknamed KOKO). A graduate of Petersburg University. Gentleman of the Bedchamber, Attach to an Embassy. Is perfectly correct in his deportment, and therefore enjoys peace of mind and is quietly gay.

TWO SILENT LADIES.

SERGY IVNITCH SAHTOF. About 50, an ex-Assistant Minister of State. An elegant gentleman, of wide European culture, engaged in nothing and interested in everything. His carriage is dignified and at times even severe.

THEODORE IVNITCH. Personal attendant on Zvezdntsef, aged about 60. A man of some education and fond of information. Uses his pince-nez and pocket-handkerchief too much, unfolding the latter very slowly. Takes an interest in politics. Is kindly and sensible.

GREGORY. A footman, about 28, handsome, profligate, envious, and insolent.

JACOB. Butler, about 40, a bustling, kindly man, to whom the interests of his family in the village are all-important.

SIMON. The butler's assistant, about 20, a healthy, fresh, peasant lad, fair, beardless as yet; calm and smiling.

THE COACHMAN. A man of about 35, a dandy. Has moustaches but no beard. Rude and decided.

A DISCHARGED MAN-COOK. About 45, dishevelled, unshaved, bloated, yellow and trembling. Dressed in a ragged, light summer-overcoat and dirty trousers. Speaks hoarsely, ejecting the words abruptly.

THE SERVANTS' COOK. A talkative, dissatisfied woman of 30.

THE DOORKEEPER. A retired soldier.

TNYA (TATYNA MRKOVNA). LADY's-maid, 19, energetic, strong, merry, with quickly-changing moods. At moments, when strongly excited, she shrieks with joy.

FIRST PEASANT. About 60. Has served as village Elder. Imagines that he knows how to treat gentlefolk, and likes to hear himself talk.

SECOND PEASANT. About 45, head of a family. A man of few words. Rough and truthful. The father of Simon.

THIRD PEASANT. About 70. Wears shoes of plaited bast. Is nervous, restless, hurried, and tries to cover his confusion by much talking.

FIRST FOOTMAN (in attendance on the Countess). An old man, with old-fashioned manners, and proud of his place.

SECOND FOOTMAN. Of enormous size, strong, and rude.

A PORTER FROM A FASHIONABLE DRESSMAKER'S SHOP. A fresh-faced man in dark-blue long coat. Speaks firmly, emphatically, and clearly.

The action takes place in Moscow, in Zvesdntsef's house.



ACT I

The entrance hall of a wealthy house in Moscow. There are three doors: the front door, the door of LEOND FYDORITCH'S study, and the door of VASLY LEONDITCH'S room. A staircase leads up to the other rooms; behind it is another door leading to the servants' quarters.

SCENE I

GREGORY (looks at himself in the glass and arranges his hair, etc.). I am sorry about those moustaches of mine! "Moustaches are not becoming to a footman," she says! And why? Why, so that any one might see you're a footman,—else my looks might put her darling son to shame. He's a likely one! There's not much fear of his coming anywhere near me, moustaches or no moustaches! (Smiling into the glass.) And what a lot of 'em swarm round me. And yet I don't care for any of them as much as for that Tnya. And she only a lady's-maid! Ah well, she's nicer than any young lady. (Smiles.) She's a duck! (Listening.) Ah, here she comes. (Smiles.) Yes, that's her, clattering with her little heels. Oh!

[Enter TNYA, carrying a cloak and boots.

GREGORY. My respects to you, Tatyna Mrkovna.

TNYA. What are you always looking in the glass for? Do you think yourself so good-looking?

GREGORY. Well, and are my looks not agreeable?

TNYA. So, so; neither agreeable nor disagreeable, but just betwixt and between! Why are all those cloaks hanging there?

GREGORY. I am just going to put them away, your lady-ship! (Takes down a fur cloak and, wrapping it round her, embraces her.) I say, Tnya, I'll tell you something....

TNYA. Oh, get away, do! What do you mean by it? (Pulls herself angrily away.) Leave me alone, I tell you!

GREGORY (looks cautiously around). Then give me a kiss!

TNYA. Now, really, what are you bothering for? I'll give you such a kiss!

[Raises her hand to strike.

VASLY LEONDITCH (off the scene, rings and then shouts). Gregory!

TNYA. There now, go! Vasly Leonditch is calling you.

GREGORY. He'll wait! He's only just opened his eyes! I say, why don't you love me?

TNYA. What sort of loving have you imagined now? I don't love anybody.

GREGORY. That's a fib. You love Simon! You have found a nice one to love—a common, dirty-pawed peasant, a butler's assistant!

TNYA. Never mind; such as he is, you are jealous of him!

VASLY LEONDITCH (off the scene). Gregory!

GREGORY. All in good time.... Jealous indeed! Of what? Why, you have only just begun to get licked into shape, and who are you tying yourself up with? Now, wouldn't it be altogether a different matter if you loved me?.... I say, Tnya....

TNYA (angrily and severely). You'll get nothing from me, I tell you!

VASLY LEONDITCH (off the scene). Gregory!

GREGORY. You're mighty particular, ain't you?

VASLY LEONDITCH (off the scene, shouts persistently, monotonously, and with all his might) Gregory! Greg—ory! Gregory!

[TNYA and GREGORY laugh.

GREGORY. You should have seen the girls that have been sweet on me.

[Bell rings.

TNYA. Well then, go to them, and leave me alone!

GREGORY. You are a silly, now I think of it. I'm not Simon!

TNYA. Simon means marriage, and not tomfoolery!

[Enter PORTER, carrying a large cardboard box.

PORTER. Good morning!

GREGORY. Good morning! Where are you from?

PORTER. From Bourdey's. I've brought a dress, and here's a note for the lady.

TNYA (taking the note). Sit down, and I'll take it in.

[Exit.

[VASLY LEONDITCH looks out of the door in shirt-sleeves and slippers.

VASLY LEONDITCH. Gregory!

GREGORY. Yes, sir.

VASLY LEONDITCH. Gregory! Don't you hear me call?

GREGORY. I've only just come, sir.

VASLY LEONDITCH. Hot water, and a cup of tea.

GREGORY. Yes, sir; Simon will bring them directly.

VASLY LEONDITCH. And who is this? Ah, from Bourdier?

PORTER. Yes, sir.

[Exeunt VASLY LEONDITCH and GREGORY. Bell rings. TNYA runs in at the sound of the bell and opens the front door.

TNYA (to PORTER). Please wait a little. Porter. I am waiting.

[SAHTOF enters at front door.

TNYA. I beg your pardon, but the footman has just gone away. This way, sir. Allow me, please.

[Takes his fur cloak.

SAHTOF (adjusting his clothes). Is Leond Fydoritch at home? Is he up?

[Bell rings.

TNYA. Oh yes, sir. He's been up a long time.

[DOCTOR enters and looks around for the footman. Sees SAHTOF and addresses him in an offhand manner.

DOCTOR. Ah, my respects to you!

SAHTOF (looks fixedly at him). The Doctor, I believe?

DOCTOR. And I thought you were abroad! Dropped in to see Leond Fydoritch?

SAHTOF. Yes. And you? Is any one ill?

DOCTOR (laughing). Not exactly ill but, you know.... It's awful with these ladies! Sits up at cards till three every morning, and pulls her waist into the shape of a wine-glass. And the lady is flabby and fat, and carries the weight of a good many years on her back.

SAHTOF. Is this the way you state your diagnosis to Anna Pvlovna? I should hardly think it quite pleases her!

DOCTOR (laughing). Well, it's the truth. They do all these tricks—and then come derangements of the digestive organs, pressure on the liver, nerves, and all sorts of things, and one has to come and patch them up. It's just awful! (Laughs.) And you? You are also a spiritualist, it seems?

SAHTOF. I? No, I am not also a spiritualist.... Good morning!

[Is about to go, but is stopped by the DOCTOR.

DOCTOR. No! But I can't myself, you know, positively deny the possibility of it, when a man like Krougosvtlof is connected with it all. How can one? Is he not a professor,—a European celebrity? There must be something in it. I should like to see for myself, but I never have the time. I have other things to do.

SAHTOF. Yes, yes! Good morning.

[Exit, bowing slightly.

DOCTOR (to Tnya). Is Anna Pvlovna up?

TNYA. She's in her bedroom, but please come up.

[DOCTOR goes upstairs.

[THEODORE IVNITCH enters with a newspaper In his hand.

THEODORE IVNITCH (to PORTER). What is it you want?

PORTER. I'm from Bourdey's. I brought a dress and a note, and was told to wait.

THEODORE IVNITCH. Ah, from Bourdey's! (To Tnya.) Who came in just now?

TNYA. It was Sergy Ivnitch Sahtof and the Doctor. They stood talking here a bit. It was all about spiritalism.

THEODORE IVNITCH (correcting her). Spiritualism.

TNYA. Yes, that's just what I said—spiritalism. Have you heard how well it went off last time, Theodore Ivnitch? (Laughs). There was knocks, and things flew about!

THEODORE IVNITCH. And how do you know?

TNYA. Miss Elizabeth told me.

[JACOB runs in with a tumbler of tea on a tray.

JACOB (to the PORTER). Good morning!

PORTER (disconsolately). Good morning!

[JACOB knocks at VASLY LEONDITCH'S door.

[GREGORY enters.

GREGORY. Give it here.

JACOB. You didn't bring back all yesterday's tumblers, nor the tray Vasly Leonditch had. And it's me that have to answer for them!

GREGORY. The tray is full of cigars.

JACOB. Well, put them somewhere else. It's me who's answerable for it.

GREGORY. I'll bring it back! I'll bring it back!

JACOB. Yes, so you say, but it is not where it ought to be. The other day, just as the tea had to be served, it was not to be found.

GREGORY. I'll bring it back, I tell you. What a fuss!

JACOB. It's easy for you to talk. Here am I serving tea for the third time, and now there's the lunch to get ready. One does nothing but rush about the livelong day. Is there any one in the house who has more to do than me? Yet they are never satisfied with me.

GREGORY. Dear me! Who could wish for any one more satisfactory? You're such a fine fellow!

TNYA. Nobody is good enough for you! You alone....

GREGORY (to TNYA). No one asked your opinion!

[Exit.

JACOB. Ah, well, I don't mind. Tatyna Mrkovna, did the mistress say anything about yesterday?

TNYA. About the lamp, you mean?

JACOB. And how it managed to drop out of my hands, the Lord only knows! Just as I began rubbing it, and was going to take hold of it in another place, out it slips and goes all to pieces. It's just my luck! It's easy for that Gregory Mihylitch to talk—a single man like him! But when one has a family, one has to consider things: they have to be fed. I don't mind work.... So she didn't say anything? The Lord be thanked!... Oh, Theodore Ivnitch, have you one spoon or two?

THEODORE IVNITCH. One. Only one!

[Reads newspaper.

[Exit JACOB.

[Bell rings. Enter GREGORY carrying a tray and the DOORKEEPER.

DOORKEEPER (to GREGORY). Tell the master some peasants have come from the village.

GREGORY (pointing to THEODORE IVNITCH). Tell the major-domo here, it's his business. I have no time.

[Exit.

TNYA. Where are these peasants from?

DOORKEEPER. From Koursk, I think.

TNYA. (shrieks with delight). It's them.... It's Simon's father come about the land! I'll go and meet them!

[Runs off.

DOORKEEPER. Well, then what shall I say to them? Shall they come in here? They say they've come about the land—the master knows, they say.

THEODORE IVNITCH. Yes, they want to purchase some land. All right! But he has a visitor now, so you had better tell them to wait.

DOORKEEPER. Where shall they wait?

THEODORE IVNITCH. Let them wait outside. I'll send for them when the time comes.

[Exit DOORKEEPER.

[Enter TNYA, followed by three PEASANTS.

TNYA. To the right. In here! In here!

THEODORE IVNITCH. I did not want them brought in here!

GREGORY. Forward minx!

TNYA. Oh, Theodore Ivnitch, it won't matter, they'll stand in this corner.

THEODORE IVNITCH. They'll dirty the floor.

TNYA. They've scraped their shoes, and I'll wipe the floor up afterwards. (To PEASANTS.) Here, stand just here.

[PEASANTS come forward, carrying presents tied in cotton handkerchiefs: cake, eggs and embroidered towels. They look around for an icn before which to cross themselves; not finding one, they cross themselves, looking at the staircase.

GREGORY (to THEODORE IVNITCH). There now, Theodore Ivnitch, they say Pironnet's boots are an elegant shape. But those there are ever so much better.

[Pointing to the third PEASANT'S bast shoes.

THEODORE IVNITCH. Why will you always be ridiculing people?

[Exit GREGORY.

THEODORE IVNITCH (rises and goes up to the PEASANTS). So you are from Koursk? And have come to arrange about buying some land?

FIRST PEASANT. Just so. We might say, it is for the completion of the purchase of the land we have come. How could we announce ourselves to the master?

THEODORE IVNITCH. Yes, yes, I know. You wait a bit and I'll go and inform him.

[Exit.

[The PEASANTS look around; they are embarrassed where to put their presents.

FIRST PEASANT. There now, couldn't we have what d'you call it? Something to present these here things on? To do it in a genteel way, like,—a little dish or something.

TNYA. All right, directly; put them down here for the present.

[Puts bundles on settle.

FIRST PEASANT. There now,—that respectable gentleman that was here just now,—what might be his station?

TNYA. He's the master's valet.

FIRST PEASANT. I see. So he's also in service. And you, now, are you a servant too?

TNYA. I am lady's-maid. Do you know, I also come from Dmen! I know you, and you, but I don't know him.

[Pointing to THIRD PEASANT.

THIRD PEASANT. Them two you know, but me you don't know?

TNYA. You are Efm Antnitch.

FIRST PEASANT. That's just it!

TNYA. And you are Simon's father, Zachary Trifnitch.

SECOND PEASANT. Right!

THIRD PEASANT. And let me tell you, I'm Mitry Vlsitch Tchilikin. Now do you know?

TNYA. Now I shall know you too!

SECOND PEASANT. And who may you be?

TNYA. I am Aksnya's, the soldier's wife's, orphan.

FIRST AND THIRD PEASANTS (with surprise). Never!

SECOND PEASANT. The proverb says true: "Buy a penny pig, put it in the rye, And you'll have a wonderful fat porker by-and-by."

FIRST PEASANT. That's just it! She's got the resemblance of a duchess!

THIRD PEASANT. That be so truly. Oh Lord!

VASLY LEONDITCH (off the scene, rings, and then shouts). Gregory! Gregory!

FIRST PEASANT. Now who's that, for example, disturbing himself in such a way, if I may say so?

TNYA. That's the young master.

THIRD PEASANT. Oh Lord! Didn't I say we'd better wait outside until the time comes?

[Silence.

SECOND PEASANT. Is it you, Simon wants to marry?

TNYA. Why, has he been writing?

[Hides her face in her apron.

SECOND PEASANT. It's evident he's written! But it's a bad business he's imagined here. I see the lad's got spoilt!

TNYA (quickly). No, he's not at all spoilt! Shall I send him to you?

SECOND PEASANT. Why send him? All in good time. Where's the hurry?

VASLY LEONDITCH (desperately, behind scene). Gregory! Where the devil are you?...

[Enters from his room in shirt-sleeves, adjusting his pince-nez.

VASLY LEONDITCH. Is every one dead?

TNYA. He's not here, sir.... I'll send him to you at once.

[Moves towards the back door.

VASLY LEONDITCH. I could hear you talking, you know. How have these scarecrows sprung up here? Eh? What?

TNYA. They're peasants from the Koursk village, sir.

[PEASANTS bow.

VASLY LEONDITCH. And who is this? Oh yes, from Bourdier.

[VASLY LEONDITCH pays no attention to the PEASANTS' bow. TNYA meets GREGORY at the doorway and remains on the scene.