this accursed place. [Thoughtfully] But what shall I do? To have an explanation with Lebedieff would be a hopeless task. Shall I make a scandal, and challenge Ivanoff to a duel? I am as excited as a child, and have entirely lost the power of planning anything. What shall I do? Shall I fight a duel?
Enter Kosich. He goes gaily up to Lvoff.
Kosich. I declared a little slam in clubs yesterday, and made a grand slam! Only that man Barabanoff spoilt the whole game for me again. We were playing—well, I said “No trumps” and he said “Pass.” “Two in clubs;” he passed again. I made it two in hearts. He said “Three in clubs,” and just imagine, can you, what happened? I declared a little slam and he never showed his ace! If he had showed his ace, the villain, I should have declared a grand slam in no trumps!
Lvoff. Excuse me, I don’t play cards, and so it is impossible for me to share your enthusiasm. When does the ceremony begin?
Kosich. At once, I think. They are now bringing Zuzu to herself again. She is bellowing like a bull; she can’t bear to see the money go.
Lvoff. And what about the daughter?
Kosich. No, it is the money. She doesn’t like this affair anyway. He is marrying her daughter, and that means he won’t pay his debts for a long time. One can’t sue one’s son-in-law.
Martha, very much dressed up, struts across the stage past Lvoff and Kosich. The latter bursts out laughing behind his hand. Martha looks around.
Martha. Idiot!
Kosich digs her in the ribs and laughs loudly.
Martha. Boor!
Kosich. [Laughing] The woman’s head has been turned.
