Serafima. I want to marry.
Oulìta (clasping her hands). Good gracious!
Karp. Well, why not? Why shouldn’t she? You might do worse....
Oulìta (shaking her head, and folding both hands on her breast). My beauty!
Karp. Who is the man? I should like to hear that.
Serafima. He’s quite a young man, papa; he serves in the Law Court; and, I ought to tell you, he’s not well off. I wouldn’t marry a poor man, only that I am so very much in love with him. (Raises eyes to heaven; sighs, and meditates.)
Oulìta (clasping her hands). Dear heart!
Karp. And who is he?
Serafima. His name is Prèzhnev. He’s a noble, of good family; and may get a good situation. I’ve thought it over; you see, I have my own fortune. If I am careful with the money, there will be enough for me and a husband. I am willing to deny myself many things rather than live without him. (Raises eyes to heaven, and sighs.)
Karp. Perhaps there’s something remarkable about him?