PODKHALYÚZIN. If they'd take ten kopeks, then it'd be all right sir. Seven and a half for satisfaction, and two and a half for the expenses of the meeting.
BOLSHÓV. That's the way I talked; but they won't listen to it.
PODKHALYÚZIN. They carry it blamed high! But won't they take eight kopeks in five years?
BOLSHÓV. What's the use, Lázar, we'll have to give twenty-five; that's what we proposed at first.
PODKHALYÚZIN. But how, daddy! You yourself used to say not to give more than ten kopeks, sir. Just consider yourself: at the rate of twenty-five kopeks, that's a lot of money. Daddy, wouldn't you like to take a snack of something, sir? Mamma! order them to bring some vodka, and have them start the samovar; and we, for company's sake, 'll just take a thimbleful, sir.—But twenty-five kopeks's a lot, sir!
AGRAFÉNA KONDRÁTYEVNA. Right away, my dear, right away! [She goes out.
BOLSHÓV. But what are you talking to me for: of course, I know it's a good deal, but how can I help it? They'll put you in the pen for a year and a half; they'll have a soldier lead you through the streets every week, and if you don't watch out, they'll even transfer you to prison: so you'd be glad to give even half a ruble. You don't know where to hide yourself from mere shame.
AGRAFÉNA KONDRÁTYEVNA enters with vodka; TISHKA brings in relishes, and goes out.
AGRAFÉNA KONDRÁTYEVNA. My own little dove! Eat, my dear, eat! I suppose they half starve you there!
PODKHALYÚZIN. Eat, daddy! Don't be particular; we're offering you such as we have.