Anísya. Then you'd better take it there yourself if you like! You've a hankering for smut, but you're weak when it comes to settling up, I see!
Nikíta. What's to be done?
Anísya. Go down into the cellar, I tell you, and dig a hole!
Nikíta. Couldn't you manage, somehow, some other way?
Anísya (imitating him). "Some other way?" Seems we can't "some other way!" You should have thought about it a year ago. Do what you're told to! Nikíta. Oh, dear, what a go!
[Enter NAN.
Nan. Mother! Grandmother's calling! I think sister's got a baby! I'm blest if it didn't scream!
Anísya. What are you babbling about? Plague take you! It's kittens whining there. Go into the hut and sleep, or I'll give it you!
Nan. Mammy dear, truly, I swear....
Anísya (raising her arm as if to strike). I'll give it you! You be off and don't let me catch sight of you! (Nan runs into hut. To Nikíta.) Do as you're told, or else mind!