Prince Sergius (to Sophia Karénina). Naturally you want him happy. But it's difficult for our hearts, wearied from the weight of years, to feel the pulse of youth and sympathize, especially is it difficult for you, my friend, who have schooled yourself to view Victor's happiness in a single way....
Sophia Karénina. Oh, you're all against me. Do as you like. Vous êtes majeur. (Sniffing into her pocket handkerchief.) But you'll kill me.
Karénin (deeply distressed). Ah, Mother, please. It's worse than cruel to say things like that.
Prince Sergius (smiling to Victor). Come, come, Victor, you know your mother speaks more severely than she could ever act.
Sophia Karénina. I shall tell her exactly what I think and feel, and I hope I can do it without offending her.
Prince Sergius. I am sure of it.
[Enter FOOTMAN.
Here she is.
Karénin. I'll go. (Goes to back of sofa.)
Footman (announcing). Elizaveta Andreyevna Protosova.