Theodore Ivánitch. Well, have you told him your secret?
Tánya. I'll tell you, too, only later on.... But I have a favor to ask of you, too, Theodore Ivánitch.
Theodore Ivánitch. Yes? What is it?
Tánya (shyly). You have been a second father to me, and I will open my heart before you as before God.
Theodore Ivánitch. Don't beat about the bush, but come straight to the point.
Tánya. The point is ... well, the point is, that Simon wants to marry me.
Theodore Ivánitch. Is that it? I thought I noticed....
Tánya. Well, why should I hide it? I am an orphan, and you know yourself how matters are in these town establishments. Every one comes bothering; there's that Gregory Miháylitch, for instance, he gives me no peace. And also that other one ... you know. They think I have no soul, and am only here for their amusement.
Theodore Ivánitch. Good girl, that's right! Well, what then?
Tánya. Well, Simon wrote to his father; and he, his father, sees me to-day, and says: "He's spoilt"—he means his son. Theodore Ivánitch (bows), take the place of a father to me, speak to the old man,—to Simon's father! I could take them into the kitchen, and you might come in and speak to the old man!