Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/165

 say, at a chemist’s or an assay-office. (A knock at the door, and Tatiana’s voice : “Andrew, may I come in?”)

(calls out): Wait a second, darling; one second! (To Merchutkin.) They didn’t pay you, but what have we got to do with it? Besides, Madame, we have a jubilee to-day and we’re busy—and at any moment someone might come—Excuse me.


 * Your excellency, take pity on me, an orphan. I am a weak, defenceless woman. I'm worried to death. What with law-cases with the lodgers and trouble on account of my husband and running about with the housework, and then my son-in-law still without a position


 * Mrs. Merchutkin, I—no, excuse me, I can’t talk to you! My head’s quite dizzy. You’re disturbing us, and wasting our time for nothing. (Sighs; aside.) I know what’ll stop her, or I’m not Shipuchin! (To Hirin.) Mr. Hirin! Please explain to Mrs. Merchutkin. (Waves his hand, and goes out.)

(approaches her roughly): What can I do for you?


 * I am a weak, defenceless woman.