First Peasant. How could we best put our affair into action, respected sir? Your reverence might take a little trouble over it, and we should give you full thankings from the Commune for your trouble.
Third Peasant. Do try, honey! We can't live! We have so little land. Talk of cattle—why, we have no room to keep a hen!
[They bow.
Theodore Ivánitch. I am sorry for you, friends, but I can't think of any way to help you. I understand your case very well, but he has refused. So what can one do? Besides, the lady is also against it. Well, give me your papers—I'll try and see what I can do, but I hardly hope to succeed.
[Exit.
[TÁNYA and the three PEASANTS sigh.
Tánya. But tell me, grand-dads, what is it that is wanted?
First Peasant. Why, only that he should put his signature to our document.
Tánya. That the master should sign? Is that all?
First Peasant. Yes, only lay his signature on the deed and take the money, and there would be an end of the matter.