Act 2, Part 1 Summary

This act also takes place in the drawing/dining room, some months after the events of Act 1. Natasha comes in, searching to ensure no servants have left any candles burning. She calls to Andrei, who comes in. Conversation reveals that it's Carnival Week. Olga now works at the Teacher's Council office, and Irina works at the telegraph office. Andrei and Natasha now are married and have a child, Bobik, over whom Natasha worries excessively. She tells Andrei she doesn't want the maskers to stop by, saying they'll disturb Bobik's rest. Andrei reminds her they were invited and that the decision is really up to his sisters, who are still mistresses of the house. Natasha says she'll tell them as well and talks about her plans to move Bobik into Irina's room and Irina into Olga's room. After asking why Andrei isn't...