The performance was concluded peacefully, but a new quarrel started around the box office. The actors and actresses stood there in a close group so that only their heads and faces, shining with the grease used to wash off the paint, were visible in the gaslight. They were all shouting for money and demanding their overdue salaries. They shook their fists threateningly at the cashier's window, their eyes flashed lightning, and their voices were hoarse from shouting.
Cabinski, still red and trembling from the abuse that had just met him, quarreled with everybody and swore and wanted to pay only the usual installments.
"Whoever isn't satisfied with what he gets, let him go to Topolski!
It's all the same to me . . ." he cried.
Janina approached the window and said: "Director, you promised to pay me to-day."
"I haven't the money!"
"But neither have I," she begged quietly.
"I am not paying the others either, and yet, they do not importune me as you do."
"Mr. Cabinski, I am almost dying from hunger," she answered straightforwardly.
"Then go and earn some money. All the others know how to help themselves. I like naive women, but only on the stage. A comedienne! Go to Topolski, he will advance you the money."
"Oh, Topolski assuredly won't let the members of his company suffer poverty. He will pay each what is due him and will not cheat people!" cried Janina impulsively.