[Laughs.
Second Peasant. And I daresay he thinks to himself, "If your own self was to kick the bucket I'd not cry."
[Laughs.
Discharged Cook (from up on the oven). That is true; that's right!
Tánya. Well, the gentleman, he gets home and goes straight to his lady: "What a good-hearted man our coachman is; he was crying all the way home about poor Dash. Have him called.... Here, drink this glass of vódka," he says, "and here's a rouble as a reward for you." That's just like her saying Jacob has no feelings for her dog!
[The PEASANTS laugh.
First Peasant. That's the style!
Second Peasant. That was a go!
Third Peasant. Aye, lassie, but you've set us a-laughing!
Tánya (pouring out more tea). Have some more! Yes, it only seems that our life is pleasant; but sometimes it is very disgusting,—clearing up all their messes! Faugh! It's better in the country. (PEASANTS turn their cups upside-down, as a polite sign that they have had enough. TÁNYA pours out more tea.) Have some more, Efím Antónitch. I'll fill your cup, Mítry Vlásitch.