Marta started and turned towards him, not knowing what to say. Vladislav smiled, looking at Peredonov, and flushed slightly.
"It's very rude," said Peredonov, "to laugh like that before guests. Were you laughing at me?"
Marta blushed and Vladislav looked frightened.
"Oh! no," said Marta. "We weren't laughing at you. We were talking about our own affairs."
"A secret?" exclaimed Peredonov angrily. "It is rude to discuss secrets before guests."
"It isn't at all a secret," said Marta, "but we laughed because Vladya hasn't all his clothes on and feels bashful about coming in."
Peredonov was mollified and began to think of jokes about Vladya and presently gave him a caramel.
"Marta, bring me my black shawl," said Vershina. "And at the same time look into the oven to see how that pie's getting on."
Marta went out obediently. She understood that Vershina wanted to talk with Peredonov, and felt glad of the respite.
"And you run away and play, Vladya," said Vershina, "there's nothing for you to chatter about here."