Police Officer. The Elder!
Akím. Let God's work be done, I mean, and then you. I mean you, do your business!
Nikíta. And, Akoulína, my sin is great towards you; I seduced you; forgive me in Christ's name!
[Bows to the ground before her.
Akoulína (leaves the table). Let me go! I shan't be married! He told me to, but I shan't now!
Police Officer. Repeat what you have said.
Nikíta. Wait, sir, let me finish!
Akím (with rapture). Speak, my son! Tell everything—you'll feel better! Confess to God, don't fear men! God—God! It is He!
Nikíta. I poisoned the father, dog that I am, and I ruined the daughter! She was in my power, and I ruined her, and her baby!
Akoulína. True, that's true!