ANÍSYA. He's coming; coming directly, coming in no time! He'll be here before one could plait a girl's hair who's had her hair cropped! Drink, friends! [Offers the drink] Coming at once! Sing again, my pets, meanwhile!
THE DRIVER. They've sung all their songs, waiting here!
The women sing. Nikíta and Akím enter during the singing.
NIKÍTA [holds his father's arm and pushes him in before him] Go, father; I can't do without you!
AKÍM. I don't like—I mean what d'ye call it …
NIKÍTA [to the women] Enough! Be quiet! [Looks round the hut] Marína, are you there?
THE MATCHMAKER. Go, take the icón, and give them your blessing!
NIKÍTA. Wait a while! [Looks round] Akoulína, are you there?
MATCHMAKER. What are you calling everybody for? Where should she be? How queer he seems!
ANÍSYA. Gracious goodness! Why, he's barefoot!