Scene XVI. Three peasants, Cook, and Old Cook (on the oven).
Third Peasant. I told you, we ought to have gone to the lodging. We should have paid a dime each, and would have had our peace; but God save us from what they are doing here. "Give me the money," says he. "What is this for?"
Second Peasant. He must have drunk a little too much. (The peasants turn over their cups, get up, and cross themselves.)
First Peasant. Don't forget the words he has cast about sowing mint! You must understand this!
Second Peasant. Yes, sow mint! You try and bend your back, and you won't ask for any mint, I am sure! Thank you! Well, clever woman, where shall we lie down?
Cook. One of you can lie down on the oven, and the other two on the benches.
Third Peasant. Christ save us! (Prays.)
First Peasant. If God should give us the accomplishment of the affair (lying down), we could slide down on the train to-morrow, and on Tuesday we should be at home.
Second Peasant. Will you put out the light?
Cook. Indeed not! They will be running in all the time now for one thing, now for another. Lie down, and I will turn down the light.
Second Peasant. How can one live on a small plot? I have been buying grain ever since Christmas. The oat straw is giving out, too. If I could, I should get four desyatínas, and would take Semén home.
First Peasant. You have a family. You will have no trouble looking after the land, if you get it. If only the affair were accomplished.
Third Peasant. We must ask the Queen of Heaven. Maybe She will take pity on us.
