NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. But are we doing no harm? Such an outlook on life is just like that of those labourers. Why we …
MARY IVÁNOVNA. Yes, I know the parable—and that he paid them all equally.
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH [after a pause] No, it's not that. But do, Mary, consider one thing—that we have only one life, and can live it well, or can waste it.
MARY IVÁNOVNA. I can't think and argue! I don't sleep at night; I am nursing. I have to manage the whole house, and instead of helping me, you say things to me that I don't understand.
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. Mary!
MARY IVÁNOVNA. And now these visitors.
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. No, let us come to an understanding. [Kisses her] Shan't we?
MARY IVÁNOVNA. Yes, only be like you used to be.
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. I can't, but now listen.
The sound of bells and an approaching vehicle are heard.