A Month in the Country

He can, can he! Anybody else, yes . . . but Bolshintsov is a shy man, an innocent soul, straight out of a fairy tale, only he doesn’t suck his thumb . . . He hasn’t got much confidence in himself, he needs a bit of encouragement. Besides, he has the most honorable intentions.

(With a mistrustful smile) Really! Well, that’s different.

SHPIGELSKY

(Also smiling) However, I don’t want to hedge . . . You’re not a man to be deceived. Well, yes . . . he’s promised me . . . my outrunner’s gone weak in the legs, so he’s promised me . . .

RAKITIN

Another outrunner?

SHPIGELSKY

No, in fact—a whole troika.

RAKITIN

You should have said so long ago!

SHPIGELSKY

(With animation) But, please, don’t go thinking . . . Not for anything would I have agreed to be a go-between in such matters, it’s completely against my nature, (Rakitin smiles) if I didn’t know Bolshintsov to be a most honorable man . . . However, there’s just one thing I want: a decisive answer—yes or no.

RAKITIN

Has it gone that far?

SHPIGELSKY

What are you imagining? . . . We’re not talking about marriage, but only about permission to come, to visit . . .

RAKITIN

He can always do that.

SHPIGELSKY

RAKITIN

Yes, and the horses are good, too.

SHPIGELSKY

The horses are good, too. (Takes snuff and holds out his snuffbox to Rakitin) Would you like some?

RAKITIN

No thanks.

SHPIGELSKY

So, so it goes, Mikhail Alexandrych. You see, I don’t want to deceive you. Why should I? It’s as clear as can be. A man of honest principles, with money, quiet . . . If he’s suitable—fine. If not—say so.

RAKITIN

That’s all well and good, I suppose; but where do I fit in? I really don’t see what I can do.

SHPIGELSKY

Eh, Mikhail Alexandrych! As if we don’t know that Natalya Petrovna respects you very much and sometimes even listens to you . . . Really, Mikhail Alexandrych, (He embraces him from the side) be a friend, put in a little word . . .

RAKITIN

And you think he’ll make Verochka a good husband?

SHPIGELSKY

(Assuming a serious expression) I’m convinced of it. You don’t believe it . . . but you’ll see. In marriage, you know it yourself, the main thing is solid character! And who is more solid than Bolshintsov! (Looks around) Here comes Natalya Petrovna herself . . . My dear friend, my father, my savior! Two chestnut outrunners and a bay in the shafts! Do something!

RAKITIN

(Smiling) Well, all right, all right . . .

SHPIGELSKY

Look sharp, I’m counting on you . . . (Runs out)

RAKITIN

(Following him with his eyes) What a finagler that doctor is! Verochka . . . and Bolshintsov! Though, why not? There are worse marriages. I’ll do as he asks, and the rest is none of my business!

He turns. Natalya Petrovna comes out of the study, sees him, and stops.

NATALYA

(Hesitating) It’s . . . you . . . I thought you were outside . . .

RAKITIN

You seem displeased . . .

NATALYA

(Interrupting him) Oh, stop it! (Steps away) You’re alone?

RAKITIN

Shpigelsky just left.

NATALYA

(Scowling slightly) Ah! That provincial Talleyrand 16 . . . What did he talk to you about? Is he still nosing around here?

RAKITIN

That provincial Talleyrand, as you call him, seems to have fallen into disgrace today . . . whereas yesterday . . .

Don’t object . . . I know and you know what I mean to say . . . and today I admit it. I’ve thought many things over today . . . Believe me, Michel, whatever stupid thoughts I’m filled with, whatever I may say, whatever I may do, I count on no one as I do on you. (Lowering her voice) There’s no one . . . I love as much as I love you . . . (A brief pause) You don’t believe me?

He’s funny, he’s entertaining, it’s true. But he . . . meddles in what’s none of his business . . . That’s unpleasant. Besides, for all his fawning, he’s quite insolent and pushy . . . He’s a great cynic.

RAKITIN

(Approaching her) That’s not how you spoke of him yesterday . . .

NATALYA

Maybe not. (Livening up) So what did he talk about?

RAKITIN

He talked to me . . . about Bolshintsov.

NATALYA

Ah! that stupid man?

RAKITIN

That’s also not how you spoke of him yesterday.

NATALYA

(With a forced smile) Yesterday is not today.

RAKITIN

For everybody else . . . but obviously not for me.

NATALYA

(Lowering her eyes) How so?

RAKITIN

For me today is the same as yesterday.

NATALYA

(Giving him her hand) I know why you’re chiding me, but you’re mistaken. Yesterday I wouldn’t have admitted that I was wrong . . .

Rakitin wants to stop her.

RAKITIN

I believe you . . . but you seem sad today . . . What is it?

NATALYA

(Does not listen to him and goes on) It’s just that I’ve become convinced of one thing, Rakitin: we can never answer for ourselves, we can’t guarantee anything. We often don’t understand our past . . . how can we answer for the future! You can’t put the future in chains.

RAKITIN

That’s true.

NATALYA

(After a long silence) Listen, I want to be frank with you, maybe I’ll upset you a little . . . but I know you’d be even more upset if I kept it a secret. I confess to you, Michel, this young student . . . this Belyaev, has made a very strong impression on me.

RAKITIN

(In a low voice) I knew that.

NATALYA

Ah! You noticed? How long ago?

RAKITIN

Yesterday.

NATALYA

Ah!

Remember, two days ago, I said there was a change in you . . . I didn’t know then what had caused it. But yesterday, after our conversation . . . and out in the meadow . . . if you could have seen yourself! I didn’t recognize you. You were like a different person. You laughed, you skipped, you played like a little girl. Your eyes shone, your cheeks were flushed. You looked at him with such trusting curiosity, with such joyful attention. And how you smiled . . . (Glancing at her) See, even now your face lights up just remembering . . . (He turns away)

NATALYA

No, Rakitin, for God’s sake, don’t turn away from me . . . Listen: why exaggerate? The man infected me with his youth—that’s all. I myself have never been young, Michel, since I was a child . . . But you know my whole life . . . It all went to my head like wine, because I’m not used to it, but I know it will all go away as quickly as it came . . . It’s not even worth talking about. (Pause) Only don’t turn away from me, don’t take your hand away . . . Help me . . .

RAKITIN

(In a low voice) Help you . . . cruel words! (Loudly) You yourself don’t know what’s happening to you, Natalya Petrovna. You’re convinced it’s not worth talking about, and yet you ask for help . . . You obviously feel you need it!

NATALYA

That is . . . yes . . . I turn to you as a friend . . .

RAKITIN

(Bitterly) Yes, ma’am . . . I hope to justify your trust, Natalya Petrovna . . . but let me collect myself a little . . .

NATALYA

Collect yourself? Has something . . . bad happened? Has anything changed?

(Bitterly) Oh, no! Everything’s the same.

NATALYA

What are you thinking, Michel? Can you possibly believe . . .

RAKITIN

I don’t believe anything.

NATALYA

Can you despise me so much . . .

RAKITIN

Stop, for God’s sake. Better let’s talk about Bolshintsov. The doctor’s waiting for an answer about Verochka, you know.

NATALYA

(Sadly) You’re angry with me.

RAKITIN

Me? Oh, no. But I’m sorry for you.

NATALYA

Really. That’s even irritating. Shame on you, Michel . . .

Rakitin is silent. She shrugs her shoulders and goes on with irritation.

You say the doctor’s waiting for an answer? Who asked him to interfere . . .

RAKITIN

He assured me that you yourself . . .

NATALYA

(Interrupting him) Maybe so, maybe so . . . Though I don’t think I said anything definite to him . . . Besides, I can change my mind. And, anyway, my God, what does it matter? Shpigelsky has all sorts of things going: not all his schemes have to succeed.

He only wants an answer . . .

NATALYA

An answer . . . (Pause) Michel, come on, give me your hand . . . why do you look so indifferent, so cold and polite? . . . Am I to blame? Think, am I really to blame? I came to you hoping to hear good advice, I didn’t hesitate for a second, I didn’t even think of hiding anything from you, while you . . . I see, I shouldn’t have been frank with you . . . It would never have entered your head . . . You suspected nothing. You tricked me. And now God only knows what you think.

RAKITIN

Me? For pity’s sake!

NATALYA

Give me your hand . . .

He doesn’t move; she goes on, slightly offended.

So you really are turning away from me? So much the worse for you! Watch out! But I’m not blaming you . . . (Bitterly) You’re jealous!

RAKITIN

I have no right to be jealous, Natalya Petrovna . . . Good God, how can you?

NATALYA

(After a pause) Whatever you like. And as for Bolshintsov, I haven’t talked it over with Verochka yet.

RAKITIN

I can go and get her right now.

NATALYA

Why now! . . . But whatever you like.

(Going to the study door) So you’re telling me to get her?

NATALYA

Michel, for the last time . . . You just said you were sorry for me . . . Is this is how you show it? Can you possibly . . .

RAKITIN

(Coldly) Are you telling me to get her?

NATALYA

(With vexation) Yes.

Rakitin goes to the study. Natalya Petrovna remains motionless for a while, then sits down, takes a book from the table, opens it, and lets it fall in her lap.

This one, too! What is all this? He . . . he, too. And I was still counting on him. And Arkady? My God! I completely forgot about him! (Straightening up) I see it’s time to put a stop to all this . . .

Vera enters from the study.

Yes . . . it’s time.

VERA

(Timidly) You asked for me, Natalya Petrovna?

NATALYA

(Quickly turning around) Ah! Verochka! Yes, I asked for you.

VERA

(Going to her) Are you feeling well?

NATALYA

Me? Yes. Why?

Vera suddenly covers her face with her hands.

It seemed to me . . .

NATALYA

No, it’s nothing. I’m a little hot . . . That’s all. Sit down.

Vera sits down.

Listen, Vera—you’re not busy with anything right now?

VERA

No, ma’am.

NATALYA

I ask because I must have a talk with you . . . a serious talk. You see, my dear heart, up to now you’ve still been a child; but you’re seventeen years old; you’re intelligent . . . it’s time you thought about your future. You know I love you like a daughter; my house will always be your house . . . still, in the eyes of other people you’re an orphan. You’re not rich. In time you may get tired of eternally living in other people’s homes. Listen, wouldn’t you like to have a home of your own—all your own?

VERA

(Slowly) I don’t understand you, Natalya Petrovna.

NATALYA

(After a pause) Someone has asked me for your hand.

Vera looks at Natalya Petrovna in amazement.

You weren’t expecting that. I must admit, it seems a bit strange to me, too. You’re still so young . . . I don’t need to tell you that I haven’t the slightest intention of forcing you . . . I think it’s too early for you to get married; I only considered it my duty to inform you . . .

Vera . . . what’s this? You’re crying? (Takes her by the hand) You’re shaking all over? You’re not afraid of me, are you, Vera?

VERA

(Hollowly) I must do as you tell me, Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

(Taking Vera’s hands from her face) Vera, aren’t you ashamed to be crying? Aren’t you ashamed to say you must do as I tell you? What do you take me for? I talk to you like a daughter, and you . . .

Vera kisses her hands.

Ah? So you must do as I tell you, miss? Then kindly laugh right now. I order you . . .

Vera smiles through her tears.

There.

Natalya Petrovna puts one arm around her and draws Vera to her.

Vera, my child, treat me as if I were your own mother, or, no, better still, imagine I’m your older sister, and let’s talk together about all these wonders . . . Want to?

VERA

All right, ma’am.

NATALYA

Well, listen, then . . . Move closer. There. First of all, since we’re saying you’re my sister, there’s no need for me to persuade you that you’re at home here: such pretty eyes are at home everywhere. So it shouldn’t even enter your head that you’re a burden to anybody in the world and that anybody would want to get rid of you . . . Do you hear? Then one bright day your sister comes to you and says: “Imagine, Vera, someone has asked to marry you . . .” Eh? How will you answer her? That you’re still very young, that you’re not even thinking about marriage?

VERA

Yes, ma’am.

NATALYA

Don’t say “Yes, ma’am” to me. Do you say “Yes, ma’am” to a sister?

VERA

(Smiling) Well, then . . . yes.

NATALYA

Your sister will agree with you, the suitor will be refused, and that’s the end of it. But what if the suitor is a good man, with money, if he’s prepared to wait, if he asks only for permission to see you now and then, in hopes that in time you’ll come to like him?

VERA

And who is this suitor?

NATALYA

Ah, so you’re curious! Can’t you guess?

VERA

No.

NATALYA

You saw him today.

Vera blushes all over.

True, he’s not very good-looking and not very young . . . Bolshintsov.

Afanasy Ivanych?

NATALYA

Yes . . . Afanasy Ivanych.

VERA

(Looks at Natalya for some time, suddenly begins to laugh, then stops) You’re not joking?

NATALYA

(Smiling) No . . . but I see Bolshintsov has no more business here. If you heard his name and cried, he might still have hope, but you burst out laughing. There’s nothing left for him but to take himself back home with Godspeed.

VERA

I’m sorry . . . but I really never expected . . . Isn’t he too old to get married?

NATALYA

What are you thinking? How old is he? He’s not even fifty. He’s in his prime.

VERA

Maybe so . . . but what a strange face . . .

NATALYA

Well, no more talk about him. He’s dead and buried . . . God be with him! Anyway, it’s understandable: a girl your age can’t like a Bolshintsov . . . You all want to marry for love, not for practical reasons, isn’t that so?

VERA

Yes, Natalya Petrovna, you . . . didn’t you marry Arkady Sergeich for love?

(After a pause) Of course I did. (Pausing again and squeezing Vera’s hand) Yes, Vera . . . I just called you a girl . . . but the girls are right.

Vera lowers her eyes.

So it’s settled. Bolshintsov is dismissed. I must say, I wouldn’t find it at all pleasant seeing his puffy old face next to your fresh little face—though, still, he’s a very good man. So you see now how wrong you were to be afraid of me? How quickly it all got decided! . . . (With reproach) Really, you treated me as if I were just your guardian! You know how I hate that word . . .

VERA

(Embracing her) Forgive me, Natalya Petrovna.

NATALYA

Well, there. You’re really not afraid of me?

VERA

No. I love you; I’m not afraid of you.

NATALYA

Thank you. So now we’re great friends and won’t hide anything from each other. And if I were to ask you: “Verochka, whisper in my ear: do you not want to marry Bolshintsov only because he’s much older than you and not a handsome man?”

VERA

Isn’t that enough, Natalya Petrovna?

NATALYA

I don’t disagree . . . but is there no other reason?

VERA

I don’t know him at all . . .

Very true, but you still haven’t answered my question.

VERA

There’s no other reason.

NATALYA

Really? In that case I advise you to think it over more. I know it’s hard to fall in love with Bolshintsov . . . but, as I said, he’s a good man. Now, if you had fallen in love with someone else . . . that would be a different matter. But up to now your heart hasn’t spoken?

VERA

(Timidly) How’s that, ma’am?

NATALYA

You don’t love anyone else?

VERA

I love you . . . Kolya . . . I also love Anna Semyonovna.

NATALYA

No, I’m not talking about that kind of love, you don’t understand me . . . For instance, of all the young men you may have seen here or on visits, can it be that you don’t like any of them?

VERA

No, ma’am . . . there are some I like, but . . .

NATALYA

For instance, I noticed, one evening at the Krinitsyns’ you danced three times with that tall officer . . . what’s his name?

VERA

With an officer?

NATALYA

Yes, the one with the big mustache.

Ah, that one! . . . No, I don’t like him.

NATALYA

Well, and Shalansky?

VERA

Shalansky’s a nice man, but he . . . I don’t think he cares about me.

NATALYA

Why’s that?

VERA

He . . . he seems more interested in Liza Velskaya.

NATALYA

(Glancing at her) Ah! . . . you noticed that? . . .

Pause.

Well, and Rakitin?

VERA

I like Mikhail Alexandrych very much . . .

NATALYA

Yes, like a brother. And Belyaev, by any chance?

VERA

(Blushing) Alexei Nikolaich? I like Alexei Nikolaich.

NATALYA

(Watching her) Yes, he’s a good man. Only he’s so shy with everybody . . .

VERA

(Innocently) No, ma’am, he’s not shy with me.

NATALYA

Ah!

He talks to me, ma’am. Maybe he seems that way to you because . . . he’s afraid of you. He hasn’t had time to get to know you yet.

NATALYA

How do you know he’s afraid of me?

VERA

He told me.

NATALYA

Ah! he told you . . . So he’s more open with you than with others?

VERA

I don’t know how he is with others, but with me . . . maybe it’s because we’re both orphans. Besides . . . in his eyes . . . I’m a child.

NATALYA

You think so? Anyway, I like him very much, too. He must have a good heart.

VERA

Oh, very good, ma’am! If you only knew . . . everybody in the house loves him. He’s so kind. He talks to everybody, he’s ready to help everybody. Two days ago he carried a beggar woman from the high road to the hospital in his arms . . . He once picked a flower for me from such a steep bank, I was so scared I even shut my eyes; I thought he’d fall and hurt himself . . . but he’s so sure-footed! You could see that yesterday in the meadow.

NATALYA

Yes, that’s true.

VERA

Remember, when he ran with the kite, the ditch he jumped over? It was nothing to him.

And he really picked a flower for you from a dangerous place? He obviously likes you.

VERA

(After a pause) And he’s always happy . . . always in good spirits . . .

NATALYA

It’s strange, though. Why is it that with me he’s . . .

VERA

(Interrupting her) I told you, he doesn’t know you. But wait, I’ll tell him . . . I’ll tell him that you’re nothing to be afraid of—right?—that you’re so kind . . .

NATALYA

(With forced laughter) Thank you.

VERA

You’ll see . . . And he listens to me, even though I’m younger than he is.

NATALYA

I didn’t know you were such friends with him . . . Watch out, though, Vera, be careful. He’s a wonderful young man, of course . . . but, you know, at your age . . . It won’t do. People may think . . . I already pointed that out to you yesterday—remember?—in the garden?

Vera lowers her eyes.

Then again, I don’t want to interfere with your feelings. I trust you both completely . . . but all the same . . . Don’t be angry with me, dear heart, for my preaching . . . it’s the business of us old folks to pester the young with warnings. But I don’t need to say all this. You like him—and nothing more, right?

VERA

(Timidly raising her eyes) He . . .

There’s that look again! Is that any way to look at a sister? Vera, listen, move closer . . . (Caressing her) What if your sister, your real sister, whispered in your ear now: “Verochka, is it true that you’re not in love with anyone?” Eh? What would you answer?

Vera looks at Natalya Petrovna irresolutely.

Those pretty eyes want to tell me something . . .

Vera suddenly hides her face on Natalya Petrovna’s breast. Natalya Petrovna turns pale and, after a pause, continues.

Are you in love? Tell me, are you in love?

VERA

(Not raising her head) Oh! I don’t know what’s happening to me . . .

NATALYA

Poor little thing! You’re in love . . .

Vera presses herself still harder to Natalya Petrovna’s breast.

You’re in love . . . and he? Is he, Vera?

VERA

(Still not raising her head) What are you asking me . . . I don’t know . . . Maybe . . . I don’t know, I don’t know . . .

Natalya Petrovna gives a start and remains motionless. Vera raises her head and suddenly notices a change in her expression.

Natalya Petrovna, what’s the matter with you?

NATALYA

(Coming to her senses) With me . . . nothing . . . What? . . . nothing.

Now it’s all clear to me . . . These children love each other . . . (Pauses and passes her hand over her face) What then? So much the better . . . God grant them happiness! (Laughing) And I . . . What was I thinking? . . . (Pauses again) She just blurted it out . . . I must say, I never even suspected . . . I must say, this news stunned me . . . But wait, it’s not over yet. My God . . . what am I saying? What’s the matter with me? I don’t recognize myself. What have I come to? (Pause) What am I doing? I want the poor girl to marry . . . an old man! . . . I send the doctor . . . he figures it out, drops hints . . . Arkady, Rakitin . . . But I . . . (She shudders and suddenly raises her head) But what is it, then? Am I jealous of Vera? Am I . . . am I in love with him? (Pause) So you still doubt it? You’re in love, wretched woman! How it happened . . . I don’t know. As if I swallowed poison . . . Suddenly everything’s broken, scattered, swept away . . . He’s afraid of me . . . Everybody’s afraid of me. What am I to him? . . . What need does he have for a creature like me? He’s young, and she’s young. And me! (Bitterly) How can he appreciate me? They’re both stupid, as Rakitin says . . . Oh! I hate that know-it-all! And Arkady, my trusting, kind Arkady! My God, my God, let me die! (Gets up) I must be losing my mind. Why exaggerate! Yes . . . I’m stunned . . . It’s amazing, this is the first time . . . I . . . yes! the first time! I’m in love now for the first time! (Sits down again) He must go. Yes. And Rakitin, too. It’s time I came to my senses. I made one misstep—and here I am! This is what I’ve come to. What do I like about him? (Ponders) So this is it, this terrible feeling . . . Arkady! Yes, I’ll escape into his arms, I’ll beg him to forgive me, to protect me, to save me. Him . . . and no one else! All others are strangers to me and must remain strangers . . . But isn’t . . . isn’t there some other way? This girl—she’s a child. She could be mistaken. The whole thing is childish . . . Why am I . . . I’ll have it out with him myself, I’ll ask him . . . (Reproachfully) Ah? You still hope? You still want to hope? And what am I hoping for? Dear God, don’t make me despise myself!

You’re so pale, Natalya Petrovna . . . What’s the matter? Let me ring . . . (She gets up)

NATALYA

No, no . . . don’t. It’s nothing . . . It will pass. There, it’s already gone.

VERA

Let me at least get someone . . .

NATALYA

On the contrary . . . I . . . I want to be alone. Leave me. Do you hear? We’ll talk later. Go.

VERA

You’re not angry with me, Natalya Petrovna?

NATALYA

Me? What for? Not in the least. On the contrary, I thank you for trusting me . . . Only, please, leave me now.

Vera tries to take her hand, but Natalya Petrovna turns away as if not noticing Vera’s movement.

VERA

(With tears in her eyes) Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

Leave me, miss, I beg you.

Vera slowly exits to the study. Natalya Petrovna, alone, remains motionless for a while.

She lowers her head into her hands. Rakitin enters from the study, pale and alarmed.

(Goes to Natalya Petrovna) Natalya Petrovna . . . (She doesn’t stir. To himself) What could have happened between her and Vera? (Aloud) Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

(Raising her head) Who is it? Ah, it’s you!

RAKITIN

Vera Alexandrovna told me you’re unwell . . . I . . .

NATALYA

(Looking away) I’m quite well . . . What made her think . . .

RAKITIN

No, Natalya Petrovna, you’re not well, just look at you.

NATALYA

Oh, maybe so . . . but what is it to you? What do you want? Why have you come?

RAKITIN

(In a moved voice) I’ll tell you why I’ve come. I’ve come to ask you to forgive me. Half an hour ago I was unspeakably stupid and rude with you . . . Forgive me. You see, Natalya Petrovna, if a man’s desires and . . . and hopes are modest, it’s hard for him not to feel shaken, if only for a moment, when they’re suddenly torn from him. But now I’ve come to my senses, I understand my position and how wrong I was, and I wish for only one thing—your forgiveness. (He quietly sits down beside her) Look at me . . . don’t you turn away, too. Before you is your old Rakitin, your friend, a man who asks for nothing except permission to serve you, in your own words, as your support . . . Don’t deprive me of your trust, use me, and forget that I once . . . Forget all that might have offended you . . .

NATALYA

(Who has been staring fixedly at the floor all the while) Yes, yes . . . (Pause) Oh, I’m sorry, Rakitin, I didn’t hear a word you said.

(Sadly) I said . . . I asked you to forgive me, Natalya Petrovna, I asked if you were willing let me remain your friend.

NATALYA

(Slowly turning to him and putting her hands on his shoulders) Rakitin, tell me, what’s the matter with me?

RAKITIN

(After a pause) You’re in love.

NATALYA

(Slowly repeating after him) I’m in love . . . But that’s crazy, Rakitin. It’s impossible. Can it just suddenly . . . You say I’m in love . . . (Falls silent)

RAKITIN

Yes, you’re in love, poor woman . . . Don’t fool yourself.

NATALYA

(Not looking at him) What am I supposed to do now?

RAKITIN

I’m ready to tell you, Natalya Petrovna, if you promise me . . .

NATALYA

(Interrupting him and still not looking at him) You know that this girl, Vera, loves him . . . They’re in love with each other.

RAKITIN

Then that’s one more reason . . .

NATALYA

(Interrupting him again) I suspected it long ago, but just now she confessed everything . . . just now.

RAKITIN

(In a low voice, as if to himself) Poor woman!

(Passing her hand over her face) Well, anyway . . . it’s time I came to my senses. I think you wanted to tell me something . . . For God’s sake, Rakitin, advise me what to do.

RAKITIN

I’m ready to advise you, Natalya Petrovna, but only on one condition.

NATALYA

What is it?

RAKITIN

Promise me that you won’t doubt my intentions. Say you believe I’m only interested in helping you. That way you’ll also help me. Your trust will give me strength, otherwise you’d better allow me to say nothing.

NATALYA

Speak, speak.

RAKITIN

You don’t doubt me?

NATALYA

Speak.

RAKITIN

Well, then listen: he must leave.

Natalya Petrovna gazes at him in silence.

Yes, he must leave. I won’t speak about . . . your husband, your duty. That’s inappropriate, coming from me . . . But these children love each other. You just told me so yourself. Now imagine coming between them . . . It would be the end of you!

NATALYA

He must leave . . . (Pause) But you? You’ll stay?

(Embarrassed) Me? . . . Me? . . . (Pause) I must leave, too. For the sake of your peace, your happiness, Verochka’s happiness, he . . . and I . . . must both leave for good.

NATALYA

Rakitin . . . I reached the point where I . . . I was almost ready to have this poor girl, an orphan, entrusted to me by my mother—married off to a stupid, ridiculous old man! . . . I didn’t have the heart, Rakitin; the words froze on my lips, when she burst out laughing at my suggestion . . . but I connived with that doctor, I let him smirk; I put up with his smirking, his compliments, his hints . . . Oh, I feel I’m on the edge of an abyss! Save me!

RAKITIN

You see, I was right, Natalya Petrovna . . . (She is silent; he hurriedly continues) He must leave . . . we both must leave . . . There’s no other way out.

NATALYA

(Dejectedly) But then what is there to live for?

RAKITIN

My God, can it have come to that . . . You’ll get over it, Natalya Petrovna, believe me . . . It will all pass. What is there to live for—really!

NATALYA

Yes, yes, what is there to live for, when you’re all abandoning me?

RAKITIN

But . . . your family . . .

Natalya Petrovna lowers her eyes.

Listen, if you like, I can stay a few more days after he leaves . . . so that . . .

(Darkly) Ah! I understand! It’s the old routine, it’s old friendship you’re counting on . . . You hope that I’ll come to my senses, that I’ll go back to you—right? I understand.

RAKITIN

(Turning red) Natalya Petrovna! Why do you insult me?

NATALYA

(Bitterly) I understand . . . but you’re fooling yourself.

RAKITIN

What? After your promises, after I—for you, for you alone, for your happiness, for your position in society . . .

NATALYA

Ah! Since when are you so concerned about that? Why have you never talked to me about that before?

RAKITIN

(Getting up) I’ll leave today, Natalya Petrovna, right now, and you’ll never see me again . . . (Makes as if to leave)

NATALYA

(Holding her arms out to him) Michel, forgive me, I don’t know what I’m saying . . . You see what a state I’m in. Forgive me.

RAKITIN

(Quickly goes back to her and takes her hands) Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

Oh, Michel, I can’t tell you how hard it is for me . . . (Leans on his shoulder and presses a handkerchief to her eyes) Help me. Without you it will be the end of me . . .

Just then the door to the drawing room opens, and Islaev and Anna Semyonovna enter.

ISLAEV

(Loudly) I’ve always been of the opinion . . .

Stops in amazement at the sight of Rakitin and Natalya Petrovna. Natalya Petrovna looks around and quickly exits. Rakitin stays where he is, extremely embarrassed.

(To Rakitin) What does this mean? What’s this scene?

RAKITIN

Just . . . nothing . . . it’s . . .

ISLAEV

Is Natalya Petrovna unwell, or something?

RAKITIN

No . . . but . . .

ISLAEV

And why did she suddenly run away? What were you talking about? She seemed to be crying . . . You were comforting her . . . What is it?

RAKITIN

Really, it’s nothing.

ANNA

But how can it be nothing, Mikhail Alexandrych? (Pause) I’ll go and see . . . (She makes as if to go to the study)

RAKITIN

(Stopping her) No, please, you’d better leave her alone for now, I beg you.

ISLAEV

What’s this all about? Tell me, will you?!

I swear it’s nothing . . . Listen, I promise both of you, I’ll explain it all later. I give you my word. But for now, please, if you trust me, don’t ask me anything—and don’t trouble Natalya Petrovna.

ISLAEV

All right . . . but I’m surprised. This has never happened to Natasha before. It’s quite extraordinary.

ANNA

What I’d like to know is—what made Natasha cry? And why did she leave? . . . We’re not strangers, are we?

RAKITIN

What are you saying! How can you! But listen—I must tell you, we didn’t finish what we were talking about . . . I ask you . . . both . . . leave us alone for a little while.

ISLAEV

Well! So there’s some secret between you?

RAKITIN

There is . . . but you’ll learn it.

ISLAEV

(Having reflected) Let’s go, mama . . . we’ll leave them. Let them finish their secret conversation.

ANNA

But . . .

ISLAEV

Let’s go, let’s go. You heard, he promises to explain everything.

RAKITIN

You needn’t worry . . .

ISLAEV

(Coldly) Oh, I’m not worried in the least! (To Anna Semyonovna) Let’s go.

They both exit.

RAKITIN

(Following them with his eyes, then quickly going to the study door) Natalya Petrovna . . . Natalya Petrovna, come out, I beg you.

NATALYA

(Comes out of the study, very pale) What did they say?

RAKITIN

Nothing, calm yourself . . . They were a bit surprised. Your husband thought you were unwell . . . He saw how upset you were . . . Sit down. You can barely stand . . .

Natalya Petrovna sits down.

I told him . . . I asked him not to trouble you . . . to leave us alone.

NATALYA

And he agreed?

RAKITIN

Yes. I did have to promise him I’d explain everything tomorrow . . . Why did you leave?

NATALYA

(Bitterly) Why! . . . But what are you going to tell him?

RAKITIN

I . . . I’ll think up something. That’s not the point now . . . We must make use of the time we have. You see, it can’t go on like this . . . You’re in no condition to bear such anxieties . . . you’re too good for that . . . I, too . . . But we won’t talk about that. Just be strong, and I . . . Listen, you do agree with me . . .

About what?

RAKITIN

About the necessity of . . . our leaving? You agree? In that case, there’s no call for delay. If you’ll allow me, I’ll talk with Belyaev right now . . . He’s a decent man, he’ll understand . . .

NATALYA

You want to talk with him? You? But what can you tell him?

RAKITIN

I . . .

NATALYA

(After a pause) Listen, Rakitin, doesn’t it seem to you as if we’re both mad? . . . I got frightened, I frightened you, and maybe all over nothing.

RAKITIN

How’s that?

NATALYA

Really. What are we doing? Not so long ago, everything seemed so calm, so peaceful in this house . . . and suddenly . . . where did it all come from? Really, we’ve all lost our minds. Come on, enough of this foolishness . . . Let’s live like before . . . And you won’t explain anything to Arkady; I’ll tell him about our silliness myself, and we’ll both have a good laugh. I don’t need a go-between with my own husband!

RAKITIN

Now you’re frightening me, Natalya Petrovna. You smile, and you’re pale as death . . . Remember what you told me just fifteen minutes ago . . .

What of it! But, anyway, I see what you’re doing . . . You stirred up this storm yourself . . . so that at least you won’t go down alone.

RAKITIN

Again, again suspicion, again a reproach, Natalya Petrovna . . . God help you . . . but you’re torturing me. Or maybe you regret being so frank?

NATALYA

I don’t regret anything.

RAKITIN

Then what are you telling me?

NATALYA

(With animation) Rakitin, if you say so much as one word about me to Belyaev, I’ll never forgive you.

RAKITIN

Ah, so that’s it! . . . Don’t worry, Natalya Petrovna. Not only will I not tell Mr. Belyaev anything, I won’t even say good-bye to him when I leave here. I’m not going to force my services on anyone.

NATALYA

(Slightly embarrassed) Maybe you think I’ve changed my mind about . . . his leaving?

RAKITIN

I don’t think anything.

NATALYA

On the contrary, I’m so convinced of the necessity, as you put it, of his leaving, that I’m going to dismiss him myself. (Pause) Yes, I’ll dismiss him myself.

You?

NATALYA

Yes, me. And right now. Send him to me, will you?

RAKITIN

What? Right now?

NATALYA

Right now. Will you, Rakitin? You see, I’m calm now. Besides, nobody will interrupt us now. I should take advantage of that . . . I’ll be grateful to you. I’m going to question him.

RAKITIN

Good God, he won’t tell you anything! He admitted to me himself that he feels awkward around you.

NATALYA

(Suspiciously) Ah! So you’ve already talked with him about me?

Rakitin shrugs.

Well, forgive me, forgive me, Michel, and send him to me. You’ll see, I’ll dismiss him, and it will all be over. It will all pass and be forgotten, like a bad dream. Do send him to me. I really need to have a final talk with him. You’ll be pleased with me. Do send him.

RAKITIN

(Who has not taken his eyes off her all the while, coldly and sadly) As you like. Your wish shall be fulfilled. (Goes to the ballroom door)

NATALYA

(Following him with her eyes) Thank you, Michel.

RAKITIN

(Turning) Oh, spare me your thanks . . . (Exits quickly to the ballroom)

(Alone, after a pause) He’s a fine man . . . But can it be that I once loved him? (Gets up) He’s right. The young man must leave. But how to dismiss him! I only want to know if he really likes the girl. Maybe it’s all nothing. How could I have become so agitated . . . why all these emotions? Well, there’s nothing to be done now. I wish I knew what he’ll tell me. But he must leave . . . He must . . . he must. Maybe he won’t want to answer me . . . He’s afraid of me . . . Well? So much the better. There’s no need to say much to him . . . (Puts her hand to her forehead) And I’ve got a headache. Shouldn’t I put it off till tomorrow? In fact, I should. I feel like everybody’s watching me today . . . What am I saying! No, it’s better to get it over with . . . One last effort, and I’m free! . . . Oh, yes, I want so much to be free and at peace!

Belyaev enters from the ballroom.

It’s him . . .

BELYAEV

(Going to her) Natalya Petrovna, Mikhail Alexandrych told me you wanted to see me . . .

NATALYA

(With some effort) Yes, right . . . I need to . . . have a talk with you.

BELYAEV

A talk?

NATALYA

(Not looking at him) Yes . . . a talk. (Pause) Allow me to tell you, Alexei Nikolaich, that I . . . I’m not pleased with you.

BELYAEV

May I know the reason?

I’ll be frank with you, Alexei Nikolaich, and you be at least a little more trusting of me. Really, you needn’t be standoffish with me. Vera loves you . . . of course, you’re not to blame for that. I’m prepared to assume that you’re not to blame for it. But you see, Alexei Nikolaich, she’s an orphan, and my ward: I’m responsible for her, for her future, for her happiness. She’s still young, and I’m sure that the feeling you inspired in her may soon disappear . . . at her age love doesn’t last. But you understand that it was my duty to warn you. It’s always dangerous to play with fire . . . and I have no doubt that, now that you know her feeling for you, you will change the way you behave with her, that you will avoid meetings, strolls in the garden . . . Right? I’m counting on you . . . I’d be wary of talking so openly with anyone else.

Listen to me . . . I . . . I really don’t know how to begin. By the way, I want you to know that my displeasure does not come from any neglect . . . of your duties . . . On the contrary, I like the way you treat Kolya.

BELYAEV

Then what can it be?

NATALYA

(Glancing at him) You needn’t worry . . . It’s not really your fault. You’re young. You’ve probably never lived in a strange house. You couldn’t have foreseen . . .

BELYAEV

But, Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

You want to know what it’s all about? I understand your impatience. Well, then, I must tell you that Verochka . . . (Glancing at him) . . . Verochka has confessed everything to me.

BELYAEV

(In amazement) Vera Alexandrovna? What could she have confessed to you? And what have I got to do with it?

NATALYA

So you really don’t know what she might have confessed? You can’t guess?

BELYAEV

Me? No.

NATALYA

In that case forgive me. If you really can’t guess, I must ask you to forgive me. I thought . . . I was wrong. But, allow me to tell you, I don’t believe you. I know why you’re saying this . . . I respect your discretion.

BELYAEV

I have no idea what you’re referring to, Natalya Petrovna.

NATALYA

Really? So I’m to believe that you haven’t noticed the way this child, Vera, feels about you?

BELYAEV

The way she feels about me? I don’t even know what to say . . . Good God. It seems to me that with Vera Alexandrovna I’ve always been the same as . . .

NATALYA

As you’ve been with everyone, right? (A brief pause) Be that as it may, whether you really don’t know or are pretending you don’t know, the thing is the girl loves you. She confessed it to me herself. Now I ask you, as an honorable man, what do you intend to do?

BELYAEV

(Embarrassed) What do I intend to do?

NATALYA

(Her arms crossed) Yes.

BELYAEV

This is all so unexpected, Natalya Petrovna . . .

NATALYA

(After a pause) Alexei Nikolaich, I see . . . I’m not handling this matter in the right way. You don’t understand me. You think I’m angry with you . . . but I . . . I’m just . . . slightly upset. That’s only natural. Calm yourself. Let’s sit down.

They sit down.

BELYAEV

Natalya Petrovna, believe me, I can appreciate . . .

NATALYA

I’ll say again that I have no doubts about you . . . besides, it will all remain a secret between us.

BELYAEV

I must say, Natalya Petrovna, everything you’ve told me seems so strange . . . of course, I wouldn’t dare to question it, but . . .

NATALYA

Listen, Alexei Nikolaich. Everything I’ve told you now . . . I’ve told you assuming that on your part there’s nothing . . . (Interrupts herself) . . . because otherwise . . . of course, I still know little about you, but I know enough to see no reason for opposing your intentions. You’re not rich . . . but you’re young, you have a future, and when two people love each other . . . I repeat, I considered it my duty to warn you, as an honorable man, with regard to the consequences of your acquaintance with Vera, but if you . . .

BELYAEV

(Bewildered) I really don’t know what you’re trying to say, Natalya Petrovna . . .

(With feigned indifference) As you wish . . . But, I must say this is not what I was expecting . . . This was not why I wanted to talk with you . . . I merely wanted to warn you . . . Vera is still a child . . . I may have made too much of it all. I see no need for you to leave. But, as you wish.

(Hurriedly) Oh, believe me, I’m not asking you to confess anything. Even without that I . . . I can see by the way you’re acting . . . (Glancing at him) However, I must tell you, it seemed to Vera that you were not entirely indifferent to her.

BELYAEV

(Is silent, gets up) Natalya Petrovna, I see that I cannot remain in your house.

NATALYA

(Flaring up) You might have waited for me to dismiss you . . . (Gets up)

BELYAEV

You were frank with me . . . Allow me to be frank with you as well. I do not love Vera Alexandrovna. At least, I don’t love her the way you suppose.

NATALYA

Did I . . . (Stops)

BELYAEV

And if Vera Alexandrovna likes me, if it seemed to her that I’m not, as you say, indifferent to her, I don’t want to deceive her. I’ll tell her the whole truth myself. But after such a talk, you understand, Natalya Petrovna, it will be difficult for me to remain here: my position will be too awkward. I won’t start telling you how hard it is to leave your house . . . but there’s nothing else I can do . . . I’ll always remember you with gratitude . . . Allow me to go now . . . I’ll still come and say good-bye to you.

NATALYA

BELYAEV

Natalya Petrovna . . . it’s really no longer possible for me to stay here.

NATALYA

You obviously find it very easy to part from us!

BELYAEV

No, it’s not easy.

NATALYA

I’m not in the habit of keeping people against their will . . . but, I must say, this is all very unpleasant.

BELYAEV

(After some hesitation) Natalya Petrovna . . . I wouldn’t want to cause you the slightest unpleasantness . . . I’ll stay.

NATALYA

(Suspiciously) Ah! . . . (Pause) I didn’t expect you to change your mind so quickly . . . I’m grateful to you, but . . . Let me think. Maybe you’re right; maybe you do have to go. I’ll think, I’ll let you know. May I keep things uncertain until this evening?

BELYAEV

I’m willing to wait as long as you like. (He bows and makes as if to leave)

NATALYA

Promise me . . .

BELYAEV

(Stopping) What, ma’am?