PRINCESS. I was there myself! Vasíly Andréevich, who is a Member of the Council, told me all about it. Borís just walked in and told them he would serve no longer, would take no oath, and in fact said everything Nicholas Ivánovich has taught him.
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. Princess! Can such things be taught?
PRINCESS. I don't know. Only this is not Christianity! What is your opinion, Father?
PRIEST. I am no longer “Father.”
PRINCESS. Well, all the same. However, you are also one of them! No, I cannot leave things in this state. And what cursed Christianity it is that makes people suffer and perish. I hate this Christianity of yours. It's all right for you, who know you won't be touched; but I have only one son, and you have ruined him!
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. Do be calm, Princess.
PRINCESS. Yes you, you have ruined him! And having ruined him, you must save him. Go and persuade him to abandon all this nonsense. It's all very well for rich people, but not for us.
LYÚBA [crying] Papa, what can be done?
NICHOLAS IVÁNOVICH. I will go. Perhaps I can be of some use. [Takes off his apron].
PRINCESS [helping him on with his coat] They would not let me in, but now we will go together and I shall get my way. [Exeunt].