Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/94

 : Bravo, bravo!


 * There are left to us only phrases and poses! Well! Let's love them as dear toys are loved. (Maid brings him a pipe.) You smile, but (Smokes.) Jokes aside, without metaphors, what is there left credible to us beyond self-perception? (To Maid.) Stop! (To Friend.) “Do I think it’s dull?” “Well, ” “Should I like to see a lovely body dance among sharp swords?” “I should.” There’s an example of credibility! Let my desires be absurd, I like them because they are credible for me. Begad, just something there’s no doubt about! (To Maid) I want to see the “Dance on the Wrathful Road.” Go away, undress and exhibit your art!

(looking at Friend) : But (Master turns to her.) Very well, sir. (Exit.)


 * By Jove, I seem to be asleep again, but this time—I don’t want to wake up. Your mead is incredibly strong. And it seemed to me that portrait smiled. Who is it?


 * My grandfather.


 * I thought it was you. (Companion puts poker and cards on the table.)


 * I am such as he was—I’m made of the