Anísya. Send her here. I dare say they'll not run away.
[AKOULÍNA collects the clothes, and exit.
Anísya. If one doesn't go he'll scold. If one goes he'll give the money to his sister. All my trouble will be wasted. I don't myself know what I'm to do. My poor head's splitting.
[Continues to work.
[Enter MATRYÓNA, with a stick and a bundle, in outdoor clothes.
Matryóna. May the Lord help you, honey.
Anísya (looks round, stops working, and claps her hands with joy). Well, I never expected this! Mother Matryóna, God has sent the right guest at the right time.
Matryóna. Well, how are things?
Anísya. Ah, I'm driven well-nigh crazy. It's awful!
Matryóna. Well, still alive, I hear?