BABAYEV.  At what time do they meet?

SHISHGALEV.  About six o’clock.

BABAYEV.  What do they do then?

SHISHGALEV.  They play preference.

BABAYEV.  And what else, certainly not only preference?

SHISHGALEV.  That’s the truth, just preference.  But usually they have tables with drinks and refreshments—­just as it should be.  They play, and then they take a bite, and so they pass the time.

BABAYEV.  And do they all drink, from six o’clock on?

SHISHGALEV.  Oh, no, by no means!  Only the dealer, or some one who has to pay a fine.

BABAYEV.  Then, my dear sir, I can’t help it.  I’ve got to wait.

SHISHGALEV.  Just wait awhile, sir.  On Monday you will please appear in court, and we’ll arrange the matter without delay.

BABAYEV.  Very well, I will be in court on Monday.  But you’ll have some writing to do for me.  Then I’ll give you—­as is proper—­I don’t like any one to labor for me for nothing.

SHISHGALEV.  My family is large, Your Honor——­

BABAYEV.  What’s that?

SHISHGALEV.  Do have the kindness to bestow a little something——­

BABAYEV.  Really, I don’t know; how’s that?  How much do you want?

KARP.  Give him one ruble, sir; that’ll be enough for him.

BABAYEV. [Giving the money] Here you are—­I’m really ashamed.

SHISHGALEV. [Depositing the coin in his pocket] Not at all.  I thank you heartily; I wish you all good fortune. [Goes out.

SCENE III

BABAYEV and KARP

BABAYEV.  How rude you are, Karp.

KARP.  If you begin to be sentimental with ’em, sir, they’ll get the habit of calling around here and bewailing their fate.  No amount of money will suffice ’em.  They’re a godless crowd.

BABAYEV.  Well, what’ll I do?  I’d like to go for a walk, but it’s still hot. 
Karp, what shall I do?

KARP.  I’ll tell you what, go to sleep; after travelling it’s a good thing.

BABAYEV.  But what shall I do at night?

KARP.  At night just the same.  They say people sleep when they’re bored.

BABAYEV.  How stupid I was not to bring any books.  If I only had some
frivolous intrigue to amuse myself with for four days.
                                 [Goes out through the side door.]

KARP.  So that’s what you wish!  An intrigue!  That’s his style!  He was his mother’s spoiled darling and he was raised with young ladies and in the housemaids’ room, and he has a hankering for that kind of thing now.  Since I’ve lived in St. Petersburg with him, what things I have seen; it was shameful!  I wonder if he’s asleep?  I’d like to have a nap. [He’s about to lie down when the door opens] Who’s that?

LUKERYA comes in.

SCENE IV