LIPA

What does all this matter anyway, Vassya?  It’s of no account, mere trifles.  To-day they are going to sing:  “Christ is arisen from the dead.  Death has conquered death.”  Do you understand?  “Death has conquered death.”

FRIAR

I understand.  I understand.  But why does he say “All will become silent” and that sort of stuff?  I don’t like it, I don’t like it.  They have crushed a woman to death—­perhaps others too. (Shaking his head) I don’t like it.  In the woods everything is so quiet and nice, and here—­I’d prefer that no miracle had happened.  I’d rather have things nice and pleasant.  What’s the use of it?  What’s the use of the miracle?  There is no need of a miracle.

LIPA

What are you talking about, Vassya?

FRIAR

Savva Tropinin!  The idea.  It shouldn’t have been done.  There was no need of it.  He said he’d go with me to the woods and then—­I liked him a lot, but now I am afraid of him.  Why did he do it?  Why?  My, what a fearful crowd!  More cripples coming, and more and more.

LIPA

What is the matter, Vassya?  What are you so excited about?

FRIAR

Everything was so nice and fine.  Oh, my!  Why don’t you go home, Miss Olympiada?  Do go, please.  You have seen all there is to be seen.  It’s enough.  What can you gain by staying here?  Come, I’ll go with you.  Oh, God, there comes Mr. Savva again!

LIPA

Where?

FRIAR

There he is.  For heaven’s sake!

SAVVA (enters and sits down)

Has Kondraty been here?

FRIAR

No, Mr. Savva.

[Pause.  Again the piteous singing of the blind can be heard.

SAVVA

Got a cigarette, Vassya?

FRIAR

No, I haven’t.  I don’t smoke.

LIPA (harshly)

What are you waiting for, Savva?  Go away.  You are not wanted here. 
Look at yourself.  You are a terrible sight.  Your face is black.

SAVVA

I didn’t sleep all last night.  That’s why it’s black.

LIPA

What are you waiting for?

SAVVA

For an explanation.

LIPA