Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/29

Rh (Pierrot takes away the thermometer and puts out the flame. Harlequin jumps up and circles about snapping his fingers.) Haha! Harlequin’s not dead yet!


 * Only a thermometer spoiled.


 * Yes, I’ve not long to live; but (taking down a lute) look, how many strings are broken and the rest are frayed! But does that stop me playing the introduction to a serenade? (Plays. Steps are heard to the left)


 * D’you hear? The doctor! Stop playing and lie down quickly. It’s he. I can tell people at once by their step. That could only be someone hurrying to help a friend.

(stops playing and lies down): To get money. (A knock.)


 * Come in!

(in huge spectacles, bald, with a big red nose and a syringe in a bag, comes in, stops, and sings to the audience):

You’ve only got to call me here,

And at once I'm near, at once I’m near,

At once I’m off to the invalid

To care for him and for his need.