Betsy. To-night I do.
Márya Konstantínovna (to Petríshchev). And do you believe?
Petríshchev. "I believe not, I believe not thy cunning vows." Well, if Elizaveta Leonídovna commands—
Vasíli Leonídych. Let us stay, Márya Konstantínovna! Ah, what? I will concoct something épûtant.
Márya Konstantínovna. No, don't make me laugh. I can't keep from laughing.
Vasíli Leonídych (aloud). I will stay!
Leoníd Fédorovich (sternly). All I ask is that those who stay will not turn this into a joke. This is a serious matter.
Petríshchev. You hear? Well, we will stay. Vovó, sit down here, and don't you lose your courage!
Betsy. You are laughing, but wait and see!
Vasíli Leonídych. Well, what is it indeed? It will be a fine thing! Ah, what?
Petríshchev (trembling). Oh, I am afraid, I am afraid. Márya Konstantínovna, I am afraid! My little legs are trembling.
Betsy (laughing). Hush up! (All sit down.)
Leoníd Fédorovich. Sit down, if you please! Semén, sit down!
Semén. Yes, sir. (Sits down on the edge of the chair.)
Leoníd Fédorovich. Sit down better!
Professor. Sit down regularly, on the middle of the chair, at your ease. (Seats Semén.)
(Betsy, Márya Konstantínovna, and Vasili Leonídych laugh.)
Leoníd Fédorovich (raising his voice). I ask those who remain not to jest, but to take the matter seriously. There might be evil consequences. Vovó, do you hear? If you can't sit quietly, go out!
Vasíli Leonídych. Quiet! (Hides himself behind the back of Stout Lady.)
