Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/83

 of these Monarchs first as of a splendid event in history, of a meeting which, under all the circumstances, is bound to have the most far-reaching consequences.”—D’you hear!—“The most far-reaching consequences.”

(takes the paper and reads): “The Political, Statistical, and Geographical” Oh, the devil!


 * It’s our favourite paper.


 * It’s simply incredible. What did you say—“The Positive Values of Serfdom”?


 * Yes. (Pours him out mead)


 * So you seriously advocate serfdom? Thanks, enough; this stuff’s very strong.


 * So I seriously advocate serfdom! (Pours out for Companion and self) It’s strong only for the weak.


 * And you say this?


 * I am repenting—I had erred. You see, I’m not a god.

(with energy): You are a god!


 * Not in that sense. You ask for my articles, but that part of me lost its belief in social ideals and died of sorrow. It gave up its place to a despot!