a cemetery. One can be cheerful even in old age if it is lighted by hope; but I have nothing to hope for—not a thing!
Lebedieff. Yes, it is rather sad for you. You have no children, no money, no occupation. Well, but what is there to be done about it? [To Sasha] What is the matter with you, Sasha?
Shabelski. Paul, give me some money. I will repay you in the next world. I would go to Paris and see my wife’s grave. I have given away a great deal of money in my life, half my fortune indeed, and I have a right to ask for some now. Besides, I am asking a friend———
Lebedieff. [Embarrassed] My dear boy, I haven’t a penny. Allright though. That is to say, I can’t promise anything, but you understand—very well, very well. [Aside] This is agony!
Enter Martha.
Martha. Where is my partner? Count, how dare you leave me alone? You are horrid!
Shabelski. [Impatiently] Leave me alone! I can’t abide you!
Martha. [Frightened] How? What?
Shabelski. Go away!
Martha. [Sinks into an arm-chair] Oh! Oh! Oh!
Enter Zinaida crying.
Zinaida. Some one has just arrived; it must be one of the ushers. It is time for the ceremony to begin.
Sasha. [Imploringly] Mother!
Lebedieff. Well, now you are all bawling. What a quartette! Come, come, don’t let us have any more of this dampness! Matthew! Martha! If you go on like this, I—I—shall cry too. [Bursts into tears] Heavens!
