Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/114

92 Count Basil. The Frenchman is full of abilities; he draws teeth expertly and cuts corns.” Oh, what luck! He can cut corns too, and I so want some one! “He will take a moderate salary, and will call you, Countess, as well as the Count: votre altesse!” (Enter Count.)


 * Oh, my dear Count! Countess Folliest is doing us a great favour; she has found a tutor for Count Basil who can also draw teeth and cut corns; and, what is most important, he will call us: votre altesse!


 * What could be better? (Enter Wisely and Flatternot.)


 * What would you wish to teach my son?


 * First of all, the principles of the faith in which he was born.


 * And dancing?


 * You are pleased to joke.


 * And what foreign languages?


 * I begin with Latin.


 * But is he to be a priest?


 * But is Latin only fit for priests?


 * I do not know why a count’s son should learn Latin.