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. I shall walk quickly to the station and see you off there.

[He goes out.

. Good-bye, all! We shall meet again next summer if we live. [The maid servant,, and the cook kiss her hand] Don’t forget me. [She gives the cook a rouble] There is a rouble for all three of you.

. Thank you, mistress; a pleasant journey to you.

. God bless you, mistress.

. Send us a line to cheer us up. [To ] Good-bye, sir.

. Where is Constantine? ‘Tell him I am starting. I must say good-bye to him. [To ] I gave the cook a rouble for all three of you.

''All go out through the door on the right. The stage remains empty. Sounds of farewell are heard. The maid comes running back to fetch the basket of plums which has been forgotten''. comes back.

. I had forgotten my cane. I think I left it on the terrace. [He goes toward the door on the right and meets, who comes in at that moment] Is that you? We are off.

. I knew we should meet again. [With emotion] I have come to an irrevocable decision, the die is cast: I am going on the stage. I am deserting my father and abandoning everything. I am beginning life anew. I am going, as you are, to Moscow. We shall meet there.

. [Glancing about him] Go to the Hotel Slavianski Bazar. Let me know as soon as you get there. I shall be at the Grosholski House in Moltchanofka Street. I must go now.

[A pause.

. Just one more minute!

. [In a low voice] You are so beautiful! What