Pod. On my way, where I always have to pass, going to the Department. I attend regularly every day now. (Silence. Podkolyòssin again drums on the table; at last takes his hat, rises, and bows.)
Agàfia. Going already?
Pod. Yes.... Pardon me, I have perhaps bored you.
Agàfia. How could that be! On the contrary, I ought to thank you for causing me to pass the time so pleasantly.
Pod. (smiling). Really, I am afraid I have bored you.
Agàfia. Oh no, indeed!
Pod. In that case, allow me to come in some other time—some evening.
Agàfia. With the greatest pleasure. (They bow. Exit Podkolyòssin.)
Agàfia (alone). What a superior person! I have only now learned to know him well; it would be difficult not to love him; he is at once modest and judicious. Yes, his friend spoke truly of him; I am only sorry that he went away so soon—I should have liked to hear him talk some more. How delightful it is to talk with him! The best of all is that he doesn’t talk small talk. I wanted to say two or three words to him, but I suddenly felt so timid, and my heart began to beat so.... What an excellent gentleman! ... I’ll go and tell auntie. (Exit.)
(Enter Podkolyòssin and Kochkaryòv.)