CURTAIN.
[ACT FOUR.]
Same as Act I. But Pepel’s room is no longer there, and the partition has been removed. Furthermore, there is no anvil at the place where Kleshtch used to sit and work. In the corner, where Pepel’s room used to be, the Tartar lies stretched out, rather restless, and groaning from time to time. Kleshtch sits at one end of the table, repairing a concertina and now and then testing the stops. At the other end of the table sit Satine, the Baron, and Nastya. In front of them stand a bottle of vodka, three bottles of beer, and a large loaf of black bread. The Actor lies on top of the stove, shifting about and coughing. It is night. The stage is lit by a lamp in the middle of the table. Outside the wind howls.
KLESHTCH. Yes . . . he disappeared during the confusion and noise . . .
THE BARON. He vanished under the very eyes of the police—just like a puff of smoke . . .
SATINE. That’s how sinners flee from the company of the righteous!
NASTYA. He was a dear old soul! But you—you aren’t men—you’re just—oh—like rust on iron!
THE BARON [drinks] Here’s to you, my lady!
SATINE. He was an inquisitive old fellow—yes! Nastenka here fell in love with him . . .