Marína (alone, stands thinking). I might go in, but I don't like to, because I have not met him since that day he threw me over. It's more than a year now. But I'd have liked to have a peep and see how he lives with his Anísya. People say they don't get on. She's a coarse woman, and with a character of her own. I should think he's remembered me more than once. He's been caught by the idea of a comfortable life and has changed me for it. But, God help him, I don't cherish ill-will! Then it hurt! Oh dear, it was pain! But now it's worn away and been forgotten. But I'd like to have seen him. (Looks towards hut and sees NIKÍTA.) Look there! Why, he is coming here! Have the girls told him? How's it he has left his guests? I'll go away! (NIKÍTA approaches, hanging his head down, swinging his arms, and muttering.) And how sullen he looks!
Nikíta (sees and recognises MARÍNA). Marína, dearest friend, little Marína, what do you want?
Marína. I have come for my old man.
Nikíta. Why didn't you come to the wedding? You might have had a look round, and a laugh at my expense!
Marína. What have I to laugh at? I've come for my husband.
Nikíta. Ah, Marína dear!
[Tries to embrace her.
Marína (steps angrily aside). You'd better drop that sort of thing, Nikíta! What has been is past! I've come for my husband. Is he in your house?
Nikíta. So I must not remember the past? You won't let me?
Marína. It's no use recalling the past! What used to be is over now!