Elder. There are witnesses enough here.

Police Officer. We will have the examination at once.

[NIKÍTA is bound.

Akoulína. (goes and stands by his side). I shall tell the truth! Ask me!

Nikíta (bound). No need to ask! I did it all myself. The design was mine, and the deed was mine. Take me where you like. I will say no more!

CURTAIN


FOOTNOTES FOR THE POWER OF DARKNESS

[1.]

It is customary to place a dying person under the icón. One or more icóns hang in the hut of each Orthodox peasant. (