Yaìch. I read in the newspapers that you wished to enter into a contract to supply timber; and therefore, as I hold the post of usher in a Government Department, I called to inquire what kind of timber you can supply, what quantity, and at what date.
Arìna. We don’t take contracts; but we are very glad to see you. Allow me to ask your name.
“ALL BOW.”
Yaìch. Ivàn Pàvlovich Yaìchnitza, collegiate assessor.
Arìna. Be so kind as to take a seat. (Turns to Zhevàkin and looks at him.) And may I ask——
Zhev. I ... you know ... I saw an advertisement about something.... I thought I might as well look in.... It’s such fine weather to-day, and the grass is growing so nicely along the road....
Arìna. And your name, if you please?
Zhev. Retired naval lieutenant Baltazàr Baltazàrovich Zhevàkin, Number 2. There was another Zhevàkin in the service, but he retired before I did; he got a wound in the knee, and the ball went through it such an odd way—it didn’t touch the knee itself, but it injured a vein, and drew it all up, so that, if you were standing near him, it always seemed as if he were going to kick you.
Arìna. Be so kind as to sit down. (To Anoùchkin.) May I ask the reason——