VOITSKI. What vulgar philosophy!
ASTROFF. What do you mean? Yes, I must confess I am getting vulgar, but then, you see, I am drunk. I usually only drink like this once a month. At such times my audacity and temerity know no bounds. I feel capable of anything. I attempt the most difficult operations and do them magnificently. The most brilliant plans for the future take shape in my head. I am no longer a poor fool of a doctor, but mankind's greatest benefactor. I evolve my own system of philosophy and all of you seem to crawl at my feet like so many insects or microbes. [To TELEGIN] Play, Waffles!
TELEGIN. My dear boy, I would with all my heart, but do listen to reason; everybody in the house is asleep.
ASTROFF. Play!
TELEGIN plays softly.
ASTROFF. I want a drink. Come, we still have some brandy left. And then, as soon as it is day, you will come home with me. [He sees SONIA, who comes in at that moment.]
ASTROFF. I beg your pardon, I have no collar on.
[He goes out quickly, followed by TELEGIN.]
SONIA. Uncle Vanya, you and the doctor have been drinking! The good fellows have been getting together! It is all very well for him, he has always done it, but why do you follow his example? It looks dreadfully at your age.
VOITSKI. Age has nothing to do with it. When real life is wanting one must create an illusion. It is better than nothing.