PODKHALYÚZIN. Impossible to do it without some bother, sir. You'll have to get rid of the notes for something, sir; have the merchandise transferred somewhere further off. We'll get busy, sir!
BOLSHÓV. Just so. Although an old man, I'm going to get busy. But are you going to help?
PODKHALYÚZIN. Good gracious, Samsón Sílych, I'll go through fire and water, sir.
BOLSHÓV. What could be better! Why the devil should I scratch around for pennies. I'll make one swoop, and that's an end to it! Only God give us the nerve! Thanks, Lázar. You've treated me like a friend. [He rises] Now, get busy! [He goes up to him and taps him on the shoulder] If you get the thing done properly, you and I'll divide the profits. I'll reward you for the rest of your life.
[He goes to the door.
PODKHALYÚZIN. I don't need anything, Samsón Sílych, except your peace of mind, sir. I've lived with you since my earliest years, and I've received countless favors from you; it may be said, sir, you took me as a little brat, to sweep out your shops; consequently I simply must be grateful.
ACT II
Office in the house of BOLSHÓV. Rear centre a door; on the left a staircase leading to the floor above.
SCENE I
TISHKA near the front of the stage, with a brush