IVANOFF
ACT I
The garden of Ivanoff’s country place. On the left is a terrace and the façade of the house. One window is open. Below the terrace 1s a broad semicircular lawn, from which paths lead to right and left into a garden. On the right are several garden benches and tables. A lamp is burning on one of the tables. It 1s evening. As the curtain rises sounds of the piano and violoncello are heard.
Ivanoff is sitting at a table reading.
Borkin, in top-boots and carrying a gun, comes in from the rear of the garden. He is a little tipsy. As he sees Ivanoff he comes toward him on tiptoe, and when he comes opposite him he stops and points the gun at his face.
Ivanoff. [Catches sight of Borkin. Shudders and jumps to his feet] Misha! What are you doing? You frightened me! I can’t stand your stupid jokes when I am so nervous as this. And having frightened me, you laugh!
Borkin. [Laughing loudly] There, I am sorry, really. I won't do it again. Indeed I won’t. [Takes off his cap] How hot it is! Just think, my dear boy, I have covered twelve miles in the last three hours. I am worn out. Just feel how my heart is beating.
Ivanoff. [Goes on reading] Oh, very well. I shall feel it later!
Borkin. No, feel it now. [He takes Ivanoff’s hand and presses it against his breast] Can you feel it thumping? That means that it is weak and that I may die suddenly at any moment. Would you be sorry if I died?
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