BORIS. No. My senses seem to be becoming more alert. Your voice sounds very sharp and clear.
ALEXIS. Lift your hand.
BORIS. It seems very heavy. Are you afraid of Death, excellency?
ALEXIS. [Eyeing him sharply.] No, I am not afraid of Death, brother, not in the least.
BORIS. Nor I!
ALEXIS. Good! Now, move your feet.
BORIS. I don’t seem to be able to. That’s strange. I can’t feel anything.
ALEXIS. Nor I! Can you get out of your chair?
BORIS. [Slowly.] I—I can hardly move my hand. I might move by a supreme effort but I haven’t the will. I—I feel no pain, only a ringing in my head.
ALEXIS. So? Well, well! Can you still hear perfectly?