across this beam. Then I would have made a good noose, would have climbed on the beam, and would have put my head into it. That is the life I lead.
Marína. Stop talking that way! Christ protect you!
Nikíta. You think I am jesting? Do you think I am drunk? No, I am not. can't get drunk to-day. Pining, pining is eating me up! I am completely undone, and nothing gives me pleasure. Oh, Marína, what a time we passed together, shortening the nights on the railroad!
Marína. Nikíta, don't tear open old sores! I have accepted the Law, and you have, too. Don't stir up the past!
Nikíta. What shall I do with my heart? Where shall I go?
Marína. What shall you do? You have a wife of your own don't covet other women, but take care of your own! You loved Anísya before,—love her now!
Nikíta. Oh, this Anísya is as bitter as wormwood to me, and she has enmeshed my feet like bad weeds.
Marína. Still, she is your wife— What is the use of talking? Go to your guests, and send my husband to me!
Nikíta. Oh, if you knew everything! What is the use of mentioning it?
Scene V. Nikíta, Marína, her husband, and Anyútka
Marína's Husband (coming from the yard, red in his face and drunk). Marína! Wife! Old woman! Are you here?
Nikíta. Here is your husband. He is calling you. Go!
Marína. And what will you do?
Nikíta. I? I will lie down here. (Lies down in the straw.)
