SAHÁTOF. Allow me to ask again. Have I a ten rouble note in my pocket?
Tánya knocks several times and passes a thread over Sahátof's head.
SAHÁTOF. Ah! [Seizes the thread and breaks it].
PROFESSOR. I should ask those present not to ask indefinite or trivial questions. It is unpleasant to him!
SAHÁTOF. No, but allow me! Here I have a thread in my hand!
LEONÍD FYÓDORITCH. A thread? Hold it fast; that happens often, and not only threads but sometimes even silk cords—very ancient ones!
SAHÁTOF. No—but where did this thread come from?
Tánya throws a cushion at him.
SAHÁTOF. Wait a bit; wait! Something soft has hit me on the head. Light a candle—there is something …
PROFESSOR. We beg of you not to interrupt the manifestations.