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shape in my head. I am no longer a poor fool of a doctor, but mankind’s greatest benefactor. I evolve my own system of philosophy and all of you seem to crawl at my feet like so many insects or microbes. [To ] Play, Waffles!

. My dear boy, I would with all my heart, but do listen to reason; everybody in the house is asleep.

. Play!

plays softly.

. I want a drink. Come, we still have some brandy left. And then, as soon as it is day, you will come home with me.

[He sees, who comes in at that moment.

. I beg your pardon, I have no collar on.

[He goes out quickly, followed by.

. Uncle Vanya, you and the doctor have been drinking! The good fellows have been getting together! It is all very well for him, he has always done it, but why do you follow his example? It looks dreadfully at your age.

. Age has nothing to do with it. When real life is wanting one must create an illusion. It is better than nothing.

. Our hay is all cut and rotting in these daily rains, and here you are busy creating illusions! You have given up the farm altogether. I have done all the work alone until I am at the end of my strength— [Frightened] Uncle! Your eyes are full of tears!

. Tears? Nonsense, there are no tears in my eyes. You looked at me then just as your dead mother used to, my darling— [He eagerly kisses her face and hands] My sister, my dearest sister, where are you now? Ah, if you only knew, if you only knew!

. If she only knew what, Uncle?