Matréna. That will do. Go into the house! Márfa is coming.
Anísya. I have trusted him. What will happen now? (Exit.)
Scene XXII. Márfa, Akulína, and Matréna.
Márfa (coming from one side, and Akulína from the other. To Akulína). I should have come long ago, but I was at my daughter's. Well, how is the old man? Is he going to die?
Akulína (taking off the washing). I don't know. I was at the river.
Márfa (pointing to Matréna). Who is that?
Matréna. I am from Zúev. I am Nikíta's mother, from Zúev, my friend. Good day! Your brother has been asking for you. He came out himself. "Send for my sister," says he, "because," says he— Oh! I am afraid he may be dead by this time.
Scene XXIII. The same and Anísya (running out of the house with a cry. Takes hold of a post and moans).
Anísya. Oh, oh! To whom has he left me? Oh, oh, oh, to whom has he abandoned me? Oh, oh, oh, a wretched widow—for ever and ever—he has closed his clear eyes—
A voice from the throng. Call for old women to fix things.
Matréna (rolling up her sleeves). Is there any water in the iron pot? I think the samovár has not been emptied yet. I will work myself.
Curtain.
