Anísya. Oh, don't talk about it. He doesn't live and doesn't die!
Matryóna. But the money—has he given it to anybody?
Anísya. He's just sending for his sister Martha--probably about the money.
Matryóna. Well, naturally! But hasn't he given it to any one else?
Anísya. To no one. I watch like a hawk.
Matryóna. And where is it?
Anísya. He doesn't let out. And I can't find out in any way. He hides it now here, now there, and I can't do anything because of Akoulína. Idiot though she is, she keeps watch, and is always about. Oh my poor head! I'm bothered to death.
Matryóna. Oh, my jewel, if he gives the money to any one but you, you'll never cease regretting it as long as you live! They'll turn you out of house and home without anything. You've been worriting, and worriting all your life with one you don't love, and will have to go a-begging when you are a widow.
Anísya. No need to tell me, mother. My heart's that weary, and I don't know what to do. No one to get a bit of advice from. I told Nikíta, but he's frightened of the job. The only thing he did was to tell me yesterday it was hidden under the floor.
Matryóna. Well, and did you look there?