GOVERNOR. The deuce take it! Once we have begun to read it, we must read it all.
ARTEMY. If you will allow me, I will read it. [Puts on his eye-glasses and reads.] "The Postmaster is just like the porter Mikheyev in our office, and the scoundrel must drink just as hard."
POSTMASTER [to the audience]. A bad boy! He ought to be given a licking. That's all.
ARTEMY [continues to read]. "The Superintendent of Char-i-i—" [Stammers.]
KOROBKIN. Why did you stop?
ARTEMY. The handwriting isn't clear. Besides, it's evident that he's a blackguard.
KOROBKIN. Give it to me. I believe my eyesight is better.
ARTEMY [refusing to give up the letter]. No. This part can be omitted. After that it's legible.
KOROBKIN. Let me have it please. I'll see for myself.
ARTEMY. I can read it myself. I tell you that after this part it's all legible.