A corridor of the Law Courts. In the background a door with glass panels, beside which stands an usher. Further to the right another door through which the accused are led.
Iván Petróvich Alexándrov comes to the first door and wishes to enter.
USHER. Where are you going? You mustn't! Shoving in like that!
IVÁN PETRÓVICH. Why mustn't I? The law says the proceedings are public. [Applause is heard from inside the Court].
USHER. Anyhow, you mustn't, and that's all about it.
IVÁN PETRÓVICH. Ignorant fellow! You don't know whom you are speaking to!
A Young Lawyer in a dress-suit enters from the Court.
YOUNG LAWYER. Are you concerned in this case?
IVÁN PETRÓVICH. No, I am the public, and this ignoramus—this Cerberus—won't let me in!