Scene XIX. Nikíta, Matréna, and Anísya (pale. Running toward Matréna from the hut around the corner).
Anísya. It was on his person. Here it is. (Shows it under her apron.)
Matréna. Give it to Nikíta! He will hide it. Nikíta, take it and put it away somewhere!
Nikíta. All right! Let me have it!
Anísya. Oh, my head! I will put it away myself! (Walks over toward the gate.)
Matréna (seizing her hand). Where are you going? They will find it out, and his sister is coming. Give it to him he knows what to do with it. Senseless woman!
Anísya. (stops in indecision). Oh, my head!
Nikíta. Well, let me have it! I will put it away safely.
Anísya. Where will you put it?
Nikíta. Are you afraid? (Laughs.)
Scene XX. The same and Akulína (coming with the washing).
Anísya. Oh, my wretched head! (Gives up the money.) Nikíta, look out!
Nikíta. What are you afraid of? I will put it away so that I can't find it myself. (Exit.)
Scene XXI. Matréna, Anísya, and Akulína.
Anísya (standing in fright). Oh, oh, when he—
Matréna. Well, is he dead?
Anísya. Yes, I think he is. He did not stir when I took it from him.
Matréna. Go into the hut! Akulína is coming.
Anísya. I have sinned, and he with the money—
