SÁSHA. Oh mother! It's dreadful to hear you speak so! Lisa can't love another.
ANNA PÁVLOVNA. Why not, when she's free? Many a man a thousand times better than your Fédya might turn up who would be only too happy to marry Lisa.
SÁSHA. Mother, it's not right! I know you're thinking of Victor Karénin.…
ANNA PÁVLOVNA. And why shouldn't I? He has loved her these ten years, and she loves him.
SÁSHA. Yes, but not as a husband! They have been friends from childhood.
ANNA PÁVLOVNA. We know those friendships! If only the obstacles were out of the way!
Enter Maid.
ANNA PÁVLOVNA. What is it?
MAID. The mistress has sent the porter with a note for Mr. Karénin.
ANNA PÁVLOVNA. What mistress?