Matryóna. Just as you like. I might even return them to him.
Anísya. And are they to be used in the same way as the others? Mixed in water?
Matryóna. Better in tea, he says. "You can't notice anything," he says, "no smell nor nothing." He's a cute old fellow, too.
Anísya (taking the powder). O-oh, my poor head! Could I have ever thought of such a thing if my life were not a very hell?
Matryóna. You'll not forget that rouble? I promised to take it to the old man. He's had some trouble, too.
Anísya. Of course?
[Goes to her box and hides the powders.
Matryóna. And now, my jewel, keep it as close as you can, so that no one should find it out. Heaven defend that it should happen, but if any one notices it, tell 'em it's for the black-beetles. (Takes the rouble.) It's also used for beetles. (Stops short.)
[Enter AKÍM, who crosses himself in front of the icon, and then PETER, who sits down.
Peter. Well, then, how's it to be, Daddy Akím?