[ANÍSYA turns to go. MATRYÓNA calls her back.
Matryóna. Just a word. Don't tell Nikíta about the business. He's silly. God forbid he should find out about the powders. The Lord only knows what he would do. He's so tender-hearted. D'you know, he usen't to be able to kill a chicken. Don't tell him. 'Twould be a fine go, he wouldn't understand things.
[Stops horror-struck as PETER appears in the doorway.
Peter (holding on to the wall, creeps out into the porch and calls with a faint voice). How's it one can't make you hear? Oh, oh, Anísya! Who's there?
[Drops on the bench.
Anísya (steps from behind the corner). Why have you come out? You should have stayed where you were lying.
Peter. Has the girl gone for Martha? It's very hard.... Oh, if only death would come quicker!
Anísya. She had no time. I sent her to the river. Wait a bit, I'll go myself when I'm ready.
Peter. Send Nan. Where's she? Oh, I'm that bad! Oh, death's at hand!
Anísya. I've sent for her already. Peter. Oh, dear! Then where is she?