An old friend is better than two new ones who said. An old friend is better than two new ones, or a new life for an old phone
According to the editor: A. N. Ostrovsky. Collected works in 10 volumes. Under general ed. G. I. Vladykina, A. I. Revyakina, V. A. Filippova. - M.: State. publishing house Literary, 1959. - Volume 2. - Comments by G. P. Pirogov. OCR: Peter. A. N. Ostrovsky AN OLD FRIEND IS BETTER THAN THE NEW TWO (1860) Pictures from Moscow life, in three acts ACT ONE PERSONS: Tatyana Nikonovna, bourgeois, owner of a small wooden house. Olenka, her daughter, a dressmaker, 20 years old. Pulcheria Andrevna Gushchina, wife of an official. Prokhor Gavrilych Vasyutin, titular councilor.
Small room; to the right there is a window onto the street, near the window there is a table on which various sewing accessories lie; straight door; to the left behind the partition there is a bed.
SCENE ONE Olenka ( sits at the table, sews and sings in a low voice):I am quiet, modest, solitary,
I sit alone all day.
And I sit as usual
Near the fireplace by the fire.
Ah, life, life! ( Sighs.) We need to go to Ivan Yakovlich again and tell our fortunes about our fate. Last time he told me well. According to him, it turns out that I almost have to be a lady. But what’s so tricky? something doesn't happen? There is no master for sin. Prokhor Gavrilych promised to marry, so maybe he will keep his promise. It would be nice; the income he receives is large; I could set the tone. It’s just that he doesn’t have a family, otherwise he would get married, he’s easy on that. But after all, they are all judges like that. Before, I myself wondered how they, with their ranks, could marry our sister; and now, as I look at them, there’s nothing surprising. They are all heavy and lazy, they keep such company that they have nowhere to see good young ladies: well, and in their life they are in good society it can’t be, it’s hard for him, he must be burdened there. Well, he feels good with us, they look after him, and he’s happy. He can’t live a day without a nanny; put a handkerchief in his pocket, otherwise he’ll forget. He only goes to his court and carries money, and is too lazy to do anything else. I’ll pester Prokhor Gavrilych: “Well, they say, you promised to get married,” - I’ll give him various reasons - maybe things will work out somehow between us. How will I dress then! I have a lot of taste - a seamstress herself. ( Sings.)
I am quiet, modest, solitary,
I sit alone all day
Tatyana Nikonovna enters.
BTOPOE PHENOMENONOlenka and Tatyana Nikonovna.
Tatyana Nikonovna. You know what, Olenka, I want to hang a curtain here at the window. It is, of course, a small beauty, but the weight seems to be better. Olenka. But I think there’s no point. Tatyana Nikonovna. And to the fact that passers-by keep looking in. Olenka. Well, are you afraid that they will jinx you and me? Tatyana Nikonovna. They won’t jinx it, but you’re still hanging around with me. Olenka. That's what! Tell me please! Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, interpret it to yourself, but I see everything. Olenka. What is it you see? Tell me, it will be very interesting to listen. Tatyana Nikonovna. If only you could ramble less! Otherwise, if you don’t let your mother open her mouth, you’ll find ten reasons for every word. Just know that nothing can be hidden from me. Olenka. All the more honor for you: it means that you are a discerning woman. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, of course. Olenka. And if you are perceptive, then you know my admirers. Tatyana Nikonovna. Of course I do. Olenka. But they were wrong: I don’t have them! Tatyana Nikonovna. Don't talk to me about it. Olenka. Well, tell me if you know! Tatyana Nikonovna. Is there an exam you want to give me? It’s been said that I know, so now you’re shaking your head. You are thinking of deceiving your mother - no, you are being naughty: even if you were ten times smarter, you would not deceive. Olenka. If you feel that you are so long, let it remain with you. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, sir, long-haired, sir; because you cannot be trusted, sir. Olenka. Why do you imagine such things about me that you can’t trust me? Tatyana Nikonovna. Because you are all pampered people, that's why; and especially those from the store. How long have you lived in the store, and how much agility has arrived in you! Olenka. When you disdain the store so much, you should send me to a boarding school. Tatyana Nikonovna. What boarding house is this? What income does this come from? Yes, I think it doesn’t suit you, your nose is short! Perhaps they would say: a crow flew into a high mansion. Olenka. If they were no worse than others, don’t worry. Well, it’s too late to worry about it now. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, madam, I forgot! Let me ask you: what kind of official did you teach to hang around the windows? Olenka. I didn’t teach anyone to do so, and it’s also impossible for anyone to stop walking on our street. No one will listen to our ban. Tatyana Nikonovna. What are you telling me? And without you, I know that no one can be forbidden. This is what the residents say: that as soon as he passes, you’ll throw something over your shoulders and chatter after him. Olenka. Who needs to watch me, I wonder! Tatyana Nikonovna. Have you thought about outwitting everyone? No, you can’t fool anyone these days. Tell me, madam, why did you come up with this idea? Olenka. What kind of tricks? Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, the same. Look at me, I look and look and I’ll do it my way. Olenka. What will you do with me? Tatyana Nikonovna. I'll kill you to death. Olenka. Are you sure you'll kill me? Tatyana Nikonovna. I will kill, I will kill with my own hands. It’s better that you don’t live in this world than to embarrass me in my old age. Olenka. If you don't kill, you'll regret it. Tatyana Nikonovna. No, don't expect any mercy. Yes, I don’t even know what I’ll do to you, it seems like I’ll tear you in half. Olenka. What passions! Tatyana Nikonovna. Don't make me angry, I'm not joking with you. Olenka. And I thought you were joking. Tatyana Nikonovna. I’m not joking at all, and I didn’t mean to joke. Olenka. So do you really believe our residents? Tatyana Nikonovna. How can you not believe something when everyone is talking? Olenka. That's great! How do you understand me after this? What do you think I am? Anyone can beckon me from the street, but I just go? Tatyana Nikonovna. Did I tell you something like that? Olenka. No, let me! If you think that I have such unreasonable behavior, why do you live with me? Why should you embarrass yourself? I’ll find a place for myself everywhere, they’ll gladly take me to any store. Tatyana Nikonovna. What else are you inventing? I’ll let you into the store, of course! Olenka. However, you said so many offensive things to me that no girl could bear it. Tatyana Nikonovna. You obviously don’t like it when people tell you something. Olenka. What's the matter? Did you see something yourself? When you see it for yourself, then speak; Until then, there is nothing for you to interpret and come up with different executions. Tatyana Nikonovna. That's why I see that you are pouting your lips. Well, sorry, sir ( crouches) that they dared to think about such a person. Sorry, sir! Sorry, mademoiselle! Olenka. There's no need to apologize! You always first offend, and then apologize. Tatyana Nikonovna. You've become so touchy! Well, I’ll bury it, if you please, I won’t talk about it anymore. Are you satisfied now? Olenka. I’m even very pleased, sir. Tatyana Nikonovna. Just remember that if I notice... Olenka. So you will kill. I already heard it. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, and I will kill you. Olenka. Well, okay, that's what we'll expect. ( Looking out the window.) Well, rejoice! Now you have news for the week. Tatyana Nikonovna. And what? Olenka. Pulcheria Andrevna is coming. Tatyana Nikonovna. This is our telegraph; we don't need to receive newspapers. But she, poor thing, gets it for gossip; well, fortunately it’s undemanding; they will scold her, drive her away: she will come again as if nothing had happened! I’ve driven it so many times, but everything goes.
Pulcheria Andrevna enters.
PHENOMENA THIRDThe same goes for Pulcheria Andrevna.
Pulcheria Andrevna. Hello Hello! Just now I met our innkeeper, she was walking so dressed up, her dress was new. I looked after her for quite a long time. Why, I think, why!.. My husband already owes a lot, they say. Well, how are you? I walk past, thinking: how can I not go in? Well, I went. Tatyana Nikonovna. Sit down! What's new? Pulcheria Andrevna. What news do we have, in our wilderness! You will disappear from melancholy; There’s no one to say a word with. Tatyana Nikonovna. You still don’t know the news, so who should! You have a great acquaintance. Pulcheria Andrevna. For goodness sake, what kind of acquaintance? The people are all rude, they don’t know any kind of treatment; It’s not that they say anything interesting, but they try everything to offend you, especially the merchants. I even quarreled with many people now because of their treatment. At least for now; I went to the neighbors, they are sewing a dowry, giving away their eldest daughter. They give it for the shopkeeper, but the dowry was the count’s, well, that’s a joke, and that’s all. So, I say: “Don’t be born smart, don’t be born handsome, but be born happy; with an unkempt beard and what a dowry he’ll take.” So if you look at how they all attacked me, and especially the old woman - she is a mocker and scolder among them, and she also has some kind of malice towards our noble class. There's something she didn't tidy up! Yes, all in mockery, in obscene words, and all in rhyme. I just burned out of shame and forcibly rolled out. You know yourself, I don’t like to be treated badly; I want to support myself, as befits a noble lady. And if I allow everyone to step on my foot, then I will have to lose my title. Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, of course, what an opportunity to let yourself down! Pulcheria Andrevna. I'll tell you that I have a lot of pride. I don’t even consider this a vice for myself, because my pride is noble. I have no pride against my equals, but against people who, despite their lack of education, extol themselves with their wealth, I always try to show that I am much higher than them. Tatyana Nikonovna. Is your husband healthy? Pulcheria Andrevna. Oh, have mercy, what is happening to him! A wooden man, you know, has no feelings; So, what could be bothering him in life? He just gets fatter. God blessed me with a hubby, there’s nothing to say! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, it’s a sin for you to complain about your husband, he’s a good earner for you. Pulcheria Andrevna. It’s true, Tatyana Nikonovna, but his character is not at all a match for me; I have an easy-going, captivating character, but he sits like a biryuk, he doesn’t care about anything. And yet we do not live worse than people. Take the neighbors: the Krutolobys have a fight every other day. At the Kumashnikovs’ place once a week, that’s the norm. Tatyana Nikonovna. God forbid! Pulcheria Andrevna. At least we don't have that. And yesterday the Chepchugovs had a story: the cook told me about them today at the market - what a comedy! Tatyana Nikonovna. What is it? Pulcheria Andrevna. She doesn’t have enough strength, so she came up with some kind of trick: she took jam and smeared it on her husband’s face and beard. They washed it off forcibly. Well, tell me what it's like! Tatyana Nikonovna. Not much good. Pulcheria Andrevna. This is how wives live with their husbands these days, Tatyana Nikonovna, and all the people are getting married. And who will they marry? They strive to take everything higher than themselves. Now I was with the Vasyutins.
Olenka listens.
Tatyana Nikonovna. Which Vasyutins have these? Pulcheria Andrevna. How come you don’t know! Yes, Olga Ivanovna knows him. Olenka. How should I know? Pulcheria Andrevna. Completeness, completeness! You were also in the store, so he went to see your owner. Olenka. Is he blond or what? Pulcheria Andrevna. Yes Yes! I know very well that you know him. Tatyana Nikonovna ( looking at his daughter). So what is it with the Vasyutins? Tell me. Pulcheria Andrevna. No, what I’m saying is, Tatyana Nikonovna, how people can suddenly dream about themselves! Well, let’s assume that they are happy, but why be so proud! What is this for? Tatyana Nikonovna. But what kind of happiness are they? Pulcheria Andrevna. Yes, it’s just as lucky that they found a bride for my son, and with peasants, you see, and an educated one; and there are only thirteen peasants. So I’m saying, Tatyana Nikonovna, how people don’t know how to behave. You should just see what's happening to the old woman. She raised her nose so high that she didn’t even want to look at anyone. I didn’t want to humiliate myself in front of her either. She and I are of the same rank; Why did she get the idea to put on airs in front of me? Well, I limited it as much as I could. So, if you please, she didn’t like it; The story was such that I even thought about leaving this acquaintance completely. Although I didn’t want to quarrel with her, so what can I do? my tongue is my enemy.
Olenka, apparently disturbed, puts on a hat and mantilla.
Tatyana Nikonovna. Where are you going? Olenka. I, mamma, will come now; I need. ( Leaves.) SCENE FOUR
Pulcheria Andrevna and Tatyana Nikonovna.
Tatyana Nikonovna. What happened to her? She looks like she's crying. Pulcheria Andrevna. I know. I know everything; I just didn’t want to talk in front of her. But you don’t know anything, and also your mother! I thought you knew everything, otherwise I would have told you long ago. Tatyana Nikonovna. Surely you will learn something from her! She will handle the matter so badly that you won’t find any solutions. Pulcheria Andrevna. No, Tatyana Nikonovna, no matter how careful you are, every matter will eventually be revealed. The rich and the nobles have such and such passages, so much so that they try to hide them! and you see, then through people or through someone it will come out. Well, it seems like a fly wouldn’t fly in our direction without anyone knowing this. Tatyana Nikonovna. Listen, Pulcheria Andrevna, do you really know anything serious about Olenka? Pulcheria Andrevna. Serious is not serious, how you judge. Of course, for a girl it’s a shame. Just don’t think that I told anyone but you. God save me! Well, of course, Vasyutin seduced her by promising to marry her; Her friend told me. Tatyana Nikonovna. Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah! But when, mother, when? ( Crying.) Pulcheria Andrevna. And when she lived with the mistress. They still see each other now, and I even know where. Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, just wait, now just come back home, I’ll ask you! Eco punishment with daughters! ( Wipes away tears.) Pulcheria Andrevna. Now neither scolding nor tears will improve matters, but you better take a good look at her. Tatyana Nikonovna. I won’t let her out of my sight now. Pulcheria Andrevna. However, goodbye! I’ve been chatting with you, but I still need to go somewhere. Farewell! ( They kiss. He leaves and immediately returns.) But Ilya Ilyich came home drunk again yesterday. Tell me, please, I ask you, when will this end? After all, you are a married man, because you are obliged to have a family! If you have no shame in front of people, you should at least be ashamed! How many children does he have? Do you know? After all, there are five. What is it like! Farewell! No time, really no time. ( Leaves and comes back again.) And I forgot to tell you. Because I'm in grief. Tatyana Nikonovna. What kind of grief are you having? maybe you're joking? Pulcheria Andrevna. What jokes! This kind of barbarism... This kind of tyranny... No, this doesn’t happen anywhere. Unless only in the lowest class. Tatyana Nikonovna. Is there something wrong with your husband again? Pulcheria Andrevna. After all, everyone wears burnouses these days, everyone; Who doesn’t wear burnouses these days? Tatyana Nikonovna. So what? Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, a friend of mine sells burnous, brand new. I rely on my fool and tell her: “You, my dear, don’t bother yourself, don’t take it to anyone, but bring it straight to me: we’ll buy it from you.” Well, she brings it. I think: what to do? And I want to support myself in front of her, and I’m afraid of my husband; Well. How can he start a story in front of a stranger! I rise to cunning. I put on my burnous, take on an indifferent tone and tell him: “Congratulate me, my friend, on your new thing!” I thought that even though he would scold me afterwards, so be it, but still, in front of a stranger, he wouldn’t want to let me and himself down. Tatyana Nikonovna. What about him? Pulcheria Andrevna. What he? Usually that. For him, his first pleasure is to humiliate his wife, and he strives to do everything in front of strangers. And his jokes, you know, are the most indecent: “Don’t listen to her, he says; she’s the one who’s dreaming about her teeth; this happens to her, he says.” - “But what, let me ask you, is tyranny for?” - I tell him. But he still didn’t answer me a single word, but continues to say to that lady: “She would, he says, buy everything, but her buying has become dull; but I don’t give her money for stupidity.” He went and sat down with his papers and closed the doors. He fooled me, he definitely fooled me. Tatyana Nikonovna. Why are you, young girl, dressing up? Pulcheria Andrevna. This, Tatyana Nikonovna, does not depend on age, it happens to be an innate taste in a person; And a lot also depends on upbringing. Tatyana Nikonovna. That’s the problem with education: there are a lot of ideas, but no money. Pulcheria Andrevna. If you understood what a noble lady means, you would not reason like that; otherwise you yourself are from a simple rank, so you judge. Tatyana Nikonovna. I judge as best I can; and you have nothing to be proud of in your rank before me, you have left me a little. Pulcheria Andrevna. You are far from me; I hire a servant from your rank. Tatyana Nikonovna. And if that’s the case, I don’t know what you’re interested in ordinary people have an acquaintance! - would only be known to noble people. Pulcheria Andrevna. Yes, of course, noble people have completely different concepts than you. Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, go to them, and don’t worry about us; We won't cry for you. Pulcheria Andrevna. Yes, sir, goodbye! I saw a lot of insults from you, I endured everything; I can’t bear it; After these words I can’t stay with you. Tatyana Nikonovna. That’s great, let’s write it down like that. Farewell! And we ask you not to complain in advance. Pulcheria Andrevna. I’m not crazy enough to make acquaintance with you after this. Tatyana Nikonovna. And we will be very happy. Pulcheria Andrevna ( approaching the door). It would be better to look after your daughter! Tatyana Nikonovna. It’s not your sadness to rock other people’s children. Pulcheria Andrevna. Not even a foot now. Tatyana Nikonovna. Tell me, what a pity!
Pulcheria Andrevna leaves.
SCENE FIFTHTatyana Nikonovna and then Olenka.
Tatyana Nikonovna. What a snide little woman, she just doesn’t have the funds! Why is Olga doing this to me? Killing her for these things is not enough. Why isn't she coming? Fortunately, my heart didn’t go away. The trouble is with my character: my heart is at odds, nothing can hold it back.
Olenka enters, undresses and, crying, sits down in her place.
What are you doing, madam? What do you think about your head? Where was you, tell me now? Olenka. Oh, mama, leave it! I'm sick without you. Tatyana Nikonovna. A! now I feel sick; Otherwise, don’t listen to your mother! So you know! Just wait a little longer with me! Olenka ( gets up and gets dressed). Oh my god! Tatyana Nikonovna. What else have you come up with? Where are you going? Olenka. I'll go wherever my eyes lead me. Why do I want to listen to swearing! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, should I praise you, or what, for your deeds? Olenka. But even cursing won’t help anything. I’m not little, I’m not ten years old. Tatyana Nikonovna. So what do you think I should do? Olenka ( sitting down at the table and covering his face with his hands). Have pity on me, poor thing. Tatyana Nikonovna ( somewhat excited). Yes... well... well... ( He is silent for some time, then he approaches his daughter, strokes her head and sits down next to her..) Well, what happened there? Olenka ( crying). Yes, get married. Tatyana Nikonovna. Who's getting married? Olenka. Prokhor Gavrilych. Tatyana Nikonovna. Is this Vasyutin? Olenka. Well, yes. Tatyana Nikonovna. You see, you see, what your own will brings you to, what it means to live without supervision! Olenka. Again you are on your own. Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, okay, well, I won't. Olenka. After all, how he swore! How he swore! Tatyana Nikonovna. Did you swear? A! Tell me please! ( Shakes his head.) Olenka. How could I not believe him? Did I understand people then? Tatyana Nikonovna. Where else to understand! What years! Olenka ( close to mother). Why did he deceive me? Tatyana Nikonovna. Do you think this will work for him? God himself will not give him happiness for this. Look, it won't be in vain for him. Olenka ( looking out the window). Ah, shameless eyes! Yes, he is still coming here - he has enough conscience! Mama, let him come to us; I shouldn’t go to him on the street crying! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, let him come in. Vasyutin ( out the window). Olga Petrovna, can I come in? Tatyana Nikonovna. Please, please! Olenka (in a pleading voice). Mom! Tatyana Nikonovna. What else do you want? Olenka ( crying). Mommy, I'm ashamed! Go away! How can I talk to him in front of you? Tatyana Nikonovna ( shaking a finger). So here you are! Oh me! Olenka. Mama! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, really... really! So I just don’t want to scold. ( Goes behind the partition.) SCENE SIX
Olenka and Prokhor Gavrilych.
Prokhor Gavrilych ( in the door). You, Vavila Osipych, wait! Me now. ( Included.) Olenka. Please sit down. Prokhor Gavrilych. No, I’m just like that for a minute. Olenka. Still, sit down, if you don’t mind being with us. Or perhaps you now abhor us. Prokhor Gavrilych ( sitting down). Not really. That's the kind of thing... You see, I, by God, would never do it myself, but mamma... Olenka. What about mummy? Prokhor Gavrilych. Everyone scolds me for my life. He says that I behave indecently, that I don’t live at home at all. Olenka ( draws scissors on the table). Yes, sir. It is indecent for you to behave like this, you are a noble, serving... Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, everyone is pestering me, so that I get married, so that I live with a family, like a decent person should. Well, you see, she’s still a mother. Olenka. I understand, sir, how can I not understand! So you want to fulfill your mother’s wish? Well, this is very noble of you, because elders should always be respected. You love your mother so much and obey her in everything... Well, so what, sir? Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, here I am... Olenka. And get married? Prokhor Gavrilych. And I'll get married. Olenka. I have the honor to congratulate you! So, do you take it with a big fortune? Prokhor Gavrilych. Well no, not really. Olenka. Why is this so? You, in the hope of your beauty, could woo a millionaire. Or maybe you want to benefit some poor young lady? This proves that you have a good heart. Prokhor Gavrilych. What a heart this is! I'm doing it for my mom. Of course, my mother and I are pleased that she was brought up in a boarding school and speaks French. Olenka. Well, how can you, with your intelligence and education, marry an ill-mannered woman! This is very low for you! If you get married, you will be with your wife in French and in different languages speak. Prokhor Gavrilych. Yes, I can't. Olenka. You pretend you don't know how. You don’t want to show off your education only in front of us, ordinary people, but in front of the young lady you will show yourself. Prokhor Gavrilych. So I came to you... Olenka. There was no point in worrying ourselves. Prokhor Gavrilych. I should have said... Olenka. Should you think about us? Prokhor Gavrilych. How can you not think! If only I didn't love you; because I love you. Olenka. Thank you very much for your love! Prokhor Gavrilych. Don’t be angry with me, Olenka: I myself see that I’m acting badly against you, one might even say meanly. Olenka. If you understand this about yourself, let it remain with you. Prokhor Gavrilych. No, really, Olenka, I’m not like the others: I gave up, and I don’t even want to know. Olenka. What about you? Prokhor Gavrilych. Yes, I am everything you want. Tell me what you need. Olenka. I don't need anything from you! You don't dare offend me like that. Well, did I love you because of money? I don't think I showed it. I loved you because I always knew that you would marry me, otherwise I would never for anything in the world... Prokhor Gavrilych. What do I care? Wouldn't I get married? Yes, that's a family. Olenka. You should have known this. Prokhor Gavrilych. How can I be with you? I really don’t know. Olenka. This is quite strange for me. You have done your job: you deceived, you laughed - what more do you need? All that remains is a bow, and out. What else do you have to worry about! So that I don’t go to complain to someone? So I won’t take a million for this just out of shame. Prokhor Gavrilych. I'm not worried about myself, but about you. Olenka. Why should you worry about me? And who will believe you that you think about me at all! Prokhor Gavrilych. No, Olenka, don’t tell me that! I'm really ashamed. I’m a simple, frank person... Olenka. So much the better for you. Prokhor Gavrilych. Only my character is so confused. After all, now I will suffer about you. Olenka. Tell! Prokhor Gavrilych. I feel so sorry for you to death... Yes, just allow me to come see you at least for a minute. Olenka. No, please excuse me! You need fame to go everywhere. I want to get married. Prokhor Gavrilych. So never see each other again? Olenka. Of course, never. After all, there is no profit from you other than straight money. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, let's say goodbye without a heart at least. Olenka. Farewell!
Vasyutin wants to kiss.
No reason! Prokhor Gavrilych ( after a short silence). How can this really be... It’s vile, I can see for myself that it’s vile! But I don’t know how to fix it. Olenka. I even find it funny to listen to! Go! Your friend is waiting for you. Prokhor Gavrilych. What a comrade this is! This is a merchant, a reveler. That's what you are! Nothing for you, but I don’t sleep at night. Right. Olenka. Don't get sick! Prokhor Gavrilych. No, please, if you need anything: money or anything else, do me a favor - come! Even this will be nice for me. Olenka. No, I’d rather die of hunger. Who do you take me for? Prokhor Gavrilych. I really feel so sorry for you; I'm ready to cry. Olenka. It will be very interesting! Prokhor Gavrilych. Let me stop by this evening. Olenka. Why did you come up with this! Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, goodbye! God be with you! ( Leaving.) For God's sake, don't be angry! Otherwise everyone will think about you. Olenka. Farewell! Farewell!
Vasyutin leaves; included Tatyana Nikonovna.
SCENE SEVENOlenka and Tatyana Nikonovna.
Tatyana Nikonovna. Well? Gone? Olenka. Gone. ( He sits down at the table and cries, covering himself with a handkerchief..) How I survived, only God knows. Tatyana Nikonovna. Cry, cry, it will be easier. Yes, and you need to completely throw him out of your head so that he can feel empty! ( Looking out the window.) Well, Andrevna is walking past again. Olenka. Mama, call her. Tatyana Nikonovna. Why, I had a fight with her. Olenka. Make peace! I need it, I need it! Tatyana Nikonovna. How long will it take to make peace? ( Out the window.) Pulcheria Andrevna! Pulcheria Andrevna! ( Daughters.) Coming. Fortunately, I’m not arrogant yet, but at least that’s good. But why did you need it, I can’t imagine it. Olenka. But you'll see.
Pulcheria Andrevna enters.
SCENE EIGHTHOlenka, Tatyana Nikonovna and Pulcheria Andrevna.
Tatyana Nikonovna. Please forgive me, Pulcheria Andrevna; Just now, due to my stupid nature, I got excited. Pulcheria Andrevna. If you, Tatyana Nikonovna, say this out of remorse, then I cannot be angry with you under any circumstances. I am very forgiving towards people, even more than I should be. Olenka. Do you, Pulcheria Andrevna, know who Vasyutin is marrying? Pulcheria Andrevna. I wish I knew! Olenka. Are you familiar with them? Pulcheria Andrevna. No, I don't know. How long does it take to get to know each other? Olenka. Do me a favor, Pulcheria Andrevna, find out thoroughly... Pulcheria Andrevna. Find out what? Olenka ( crying). Is his bride good? Does he love her? Does she love him? Pulcheria Andrevna. Only? Olenka. Only! ( Sits down at the table and covers his face with his hands.) Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, leave her alone. God be with her! ACT TWO PERSONS: Gavrila Prokhorych Vasyutin, old man, retired official. Anfisa Karpovna, his wife. Prokhor Gavrilych Vasyutin, their son. Vavila Osipovich Gustomesov, merchant, about 35 years old, dressed in Russian. Orestes, a footman, about 50 years old, important, clumsy, in a greasy frock coat, often takes out a snuff box with the general.
The living room in the Vasyutins’ house: to the left is the door to Prokhor Gavrilych’s office, straight is the exit door, to the right is the inner rooms. There is a sofa to the left of the audience, a table to the right.
SCENE ONE Orestes ( escorts the applicant to the office). You're welcome! You're welcome! We know your cause: your cause is just. ( The petitioner leaves.) True, the proverb says: “Every rogue has his own calculations!” If only we could take our master! He has no mind. With the judges with our own or with our brother good conversation He’s not smart enough (sniffs tobacco) to be worth attention. He babbles a lot with his tongue, but nothing is coherent, without any reason, what is in place, what is out of place - just like some kind of shell. But with petitioners, he knows his business - he maintains such a tone that it’s a pleasure to look at him. He will assume severity, as if he were in melancholy, and his tongue won’t move; So the petitioner sighs, sighs, he breaks out in sweat; will come out of the office as if from a bathhouse; and he begins to put on his overcoat - he sighs, and he walks around the yard - he keeps sighing and looking around. And with whom he is so affectionate: he pats you on the shoulder and strokes your stomach. This is the policy he knows! There is no need, that he is not smart, but is subtle in these matters. Well, he lives like a cheese in butter. That's how our brother is - everyone should understand himself! Whoever knows how to do something, do it, and don’t take on your own business! Now I... I can do anything, but I won’t go to serve in a good house. Because, firstly, it’s summer, and secondly, the illness is in me: there’s a crowbar in my legs; again, at times I have a weakness for this rubbish ( spits), to this damn wine. In a good house you don’t need intelligence, there is dexterity, and to have a person on the line, that’s why you are always in sight. And now I need peace! According to my character, I can only live with clerks! Neither clothing nor cleanliness is required of you - just know how to treat petitioners. And if I know how to deal with a person, then I don’t need to complain. The master has his own income, and I have my own: therefore, it is in my power to allow him access and not to allow him. And if, due to my weakness, I had not been subject to this temporary illness for three or four days a month, I would have had large capital; in this house, of course, it’s not worth cutting yourself down - depriving yourself of the pleasure of it; but just one thing: once you get into this frenzy, you end up wasting so much money.Included Anfisa Karpovna.
PHENOMENA SECONDOrest and Anfisa Karpovna.
Anfisa Karpovna. Is there anyone at the master's? Orestes. The petitioner is sitting. Anfisa Karpovna. Merchant or noble? Orestes. In German, but it must be a merchant. Anfisa Karpovna. I told you, Orestes, a long time ago not to ask merchants for money, but you still don’t give up your habit. I see everything. In the hall they will interfere with you, so you will jump out of the gate and pester there like a beggar. Orestes. Eh, madam! Anfisa Karpovna. What: eh, madam? And for us this is a shock; They will think that you are in need with us. Orestes. Eh, lady! What to serve from? Anfisa Karpovna. You receive a salary. Orestes. What a salary, madam! Is it worth attention? Anfisa Karpovna. So why do you live if you are dissatisfied with your salary? Orestes. Eh, madam! Then I live that I have income. It has been established since the beginning of the universe that an employee’s valet has his own income. Well, you will remind those of the petitioners who do not have this habit. Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, after all, this is depredation. Orestes. No, madam, there is no stain. Anfisa Karpovna. But I’ll tell Proshenka to forbid you. Orestes. They will never forbid me, for the very reason that they also live on income, they also receive a small salary. They can reason correctly, in accordance with reason. Anfisa Karpovna. And in your opinion, am I reasoning incorrectly, inconsistently with reason? How dare you talk to me like that? Orestes. Here's what, madam, excuse me: everyone knows his business. You can judge one thing, but another matter requires a man’s judgment. How can you say not to take it! Oh my God! Yes, what does this mean? Well, let’s say it’s not I who will serve you, someone else will; So is there anything he won’t take? - it will also become; force a woman to serve, and she will take. If there is such a provision for taking money from petitioners, how do you order me not to take it? Why should I give up my happiness? It's even funny to listen to! Anfisa Karpovna. You are such a rude person, you have become such a rude person that I simply have no patience with you! I will definitely complain to my son about you. Orestes. Eh, madam! What a rude person I am! And what, of course, which is none of your business, so you say... Anfisa Karpovna. How is it not relevant? Everything that concerns my son also concerns me, because I try in every possible way to ennoble him at least a little. Orestes. I understand all this, madam, but it’s just not possible. Anfisa Karpovna. Why is it not possible? Now he’s marrying an educated young lady, and the order in the house will be completely different. Orestes. This is absolutely impossible, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. How can you not? You will see that it is very possible. Orestes. Will they leave the service? Anfisa Karpovna. And he won’t leave the service, he’ll only behave more delicately, and he’ll keep people like that... Orestes. Whatever you want, madam, keep it, it’s all one. Even though the master is getting married now, and if he doesn’t leave the service, their circle of acquaintance will still be the same, all the same employees and merchants, the same rigmarole as now; so people, looking at the masters, will not keep themselves strict. And they will take money too, because merchants even love it when people take money from them. If you don’t take it from him, he’s afraid - he doesn’t have such ease in conversation, as if he’s afraid of something. You also need to know how to deal with merchants! And what about nobility, everyone would probably want that... Anfisa Karpovna. Well, please be silent when you are not asked. Orestes. I'll shut up; Only, it’s clear, madam, that the eyes don’t grow higher than the forehead. Anfisa Karpovna. Where is your place? Your place is in the front! Why are you hanging around here? You must enter the rooms when you are called... Orestes. It is known, in the front: because he is a boor. And there is also a difference between gentlemen and gentlemen, and therefore this name alone is that he is a gentleman, but in reality it turns out to be quite the opposite. At least now the master wants to get married... Anfisa Karpovna. I told you to go to the hallway. Orestes. I will go. Eh, madam! I just don’t have to say it, otherwise I would have said it. We also understand something. You need to take your wife on your own. ( Leaves.) PHENOMENA THIRD
Anfisa Karpovna and then Gavrila Prokhorych.
Anfisa Karpovna. What a punishment for these people! How many people have stayed with us, everyone is the same. At first he will live fine for two weeks, and then he will start being rude or drinking. Of course, every house is run by its owners. What kind of bosses we have! It just hurts my heart to look at them. I can’t figure it out with my son: he’s still a young man, but he behaves indecently. Perhaps he doesn’t have any acquaintances, doesn’t he have anyone to work with? Or maybe he was born like his father? too, you know, there will be no way! If only I could marry him as soon as possible! My father had completely lost his mind from his ugly life. Well, people look at them and don’t respect me. All my life I’ve been toiling with my husband, maybe at least my son would please me with something! If only I could live properly for a month; It seems to me that this would be more valuable than anything in the world. And people also envy me that my son gets a lot of money. God be with them and with the money, if only I lived more modestly. There are those who are so happy that they live and only rejoice in their children, but I...
Included Gavrila Prokhorych.
It's been a long time since we've seen each other. Why is this? Can't you hear? Gavrila Prokhorych ( crouches like a young lady and whispers). For the newspapers, sir. ( Takes newspapers from the table.) Anfisa Karpovna. We would sit upstairs at home. Who needs to look at you! Here, tea, people walk. You're just embarrassing your son! Gavrila Prokhorych. Shame on your son! Uh! y! ( Makes faces.) Anfisa Karpovna. Well, please don't be a clown, I don't like it. Gavrila Prokhorych ( viciously). Who can I shame! I am a titular adviser. Anfisa Karpovna. Important food! Gavrila Prokhorych. Yes, sir! Serve yourself! What is a titular advisor? Captain! A! What a thing! So think as you know! Anfisa Karpovna. What to think! There’s nothing to think about! Your brother hangs around the taverns a lot. All I know is that I’ve been struggling with you for thirty years, and I’m still struggling now. Gavrila Prokhorych. Well, don’t be too angry, I’ll leave, sir. Otherwise, shame your son! He himself shames me. ( He leaves, then comes back and cries..) Anfisa Karpovna. What else is this? Gavrila Prokhorych. Proshenka is getting married soon. Anfisa Karpovna. Well, so what? Gavrila Prokhorych. I feel sorry for Proshenka. Anfisa Karpovna. It's not you who's crying; it is the wine in you that is crying. They cry when their daughters are given away, but when their sons are married, they are so happy. You forgot. Gavrila Prokhorych. No, something became sensitive; otherwise I’m okay, I’m happy. He is respectful to me; He respects me, an old man, and condescends to my weaknesses. Anfisa Karpovna. You taught him these weaknesses too. But you should get dressed and go to the bride with your son today, fortunately, you are in your uniform, otherwise you won’t see this soon. Gavrila Prokhorych. Okay, I'll go get dressed. Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, behave yourself more decently. Gavrila Prokhorych. What are you teaching me! I know how to behave. The way noble people behave is how I will behave. ( Leaves.) Anfisa Karpovna. Why! It looks like you will behave as noble people do! Well, they won’t exact it from the old man.
A merchant enters with a bag in his hands
SCENE FOURAnfisa Karpovna and the merchant.
Anfisa Karpovna. Ah, Vavila Osipych! Are you visiting Proshenka? Merchant. Exactly so, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. He's busy now. Merchant. Let's wait, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. Sit down please! Merchant. We humbly thank you, sir. Don't worry, sir. ( sits down .) Anfisa Karpovna. What is it with you? Should there be wine? Merchant. It's the same, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. Why are you carrying all this wine? Merchant. That’s why it’s always required, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, you wear it often, and a lot. Merchant. It will come out, sir. A necessary thing for the home, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. What's your business? Merchant. Finished, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. Well, are you satisfied? Merchant. It’s not just that they are happy, but it must be said that they must pray to God forever for Prokhor Gavrilych. For this cause I am now, it seems, to the death of my life whatever they want. They tell me: Vavila Osipych!.. my name, madam, is Vavila Osipych... get some bird's milk! I’ll walk around the entire universe on foot, and then I’ll get it. Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, many are grateful to him. Merchant. An excellent person, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. The merchants love him very much. Merchant. It’s impossible not to love, sir; therefore, first of all, he is a business man, sir, needed by everyone; and the second thing is, undemanding, sir. He keeps company with our brother, the same as with an equal, does not disdain our ugliness; Even I notice that they really like it. Well, if we have a drink, since we have this order - I’ll tell you, madam, we can be quite ugly at times, so we need company for this - so they are never averse to it, and are always with us soul. And it’s not that they lag behind or break the company, but they can sit closely and are equal to everyone. Yes, even one of ours will not be able to stand against them. Well, that means a person is worth respect. After all, with us, too, not everyone will be loved, but with an analysis, sir, who is worth what. Anfisa Karpovna. Only he drinks a lot with you. Merchant. No, what a lot! They drink in proportion. Anfisa Karpovna. No, not very proportionate. Merchant. It’s true that if you’re rare, it may even seem like a lot, sir; but if you drink gradually, like we do, it’s okay. Everything is a habit, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. You know, Vavila Osipych, I’m going to marry him. Merchant. Very wonderful, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. He's that old now. Merchant. Just right, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. Well, I’ve become old; After all, you don’t know when God will send your soul, so you want to arrange it during your lifetime. I recently met a lady, her daughter just left the boarding school; we talked, I recommended my son to her; That's how things went for us. I once hinted to her that it would be nice to become related! “I wouldn’t mind, he says! How my daughter will like it!” Well, that means the matter is almost over. How long does it take for a girl to like you? She hasn't even seen people yet. And with a fortune, there is money and property. Merchant. The real deal, sir. Anfisa Karpovna. I'll tell you, Vavila Osipych, I never thought that he would be so efficient. The teaching was not given to him - he had no idea of anything, so after great power We taught him to read and write, but it cost us a lot of trouble. Well, in the gymnasium I couldn’t understand anything at all; So they took it from the second grade. By this time his father had completely weakened. I suffered so much grief then, I just can’t express it to you! I sent him to court, and then suddenly his understanding opened. What's next is better; Yes, now he feeds the whole family. And what does he say? “I don’t value service,” he says, “mama;” I can make a fortune for myself even without service, just through private affairs. This is the concept that suddenly opened up to him! Merchant. And now their work is the most expensive and the hardest, because everyone needs to use their brains. Without brains, I believe, you can't do anything.
Prokhor Gavrilych and the petitioner leave the office. The merchant gets up.
SCENE FIFTHThe same, Prokhor Gavrilych and the petitioner.
Prokhor Gavrilych ( accompanying the applicant to the door). I told you that I will bother; Well, then whatever God wills. Petitioner. Do me a favor, Prokhor Gavrilych! ( Goes out the door.) Prokhor Gavrilych ( in the door). I will bother, I already told you; and then, as they look. Petitioner ( from the front). Please, Prokhor Gavrilych. We ask for forgiveness! Prokhor Gavrilych. Farewell! ( To the merchant.) Ah, friend! What did you bring, wine? Merchant. Special. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, thank you! So you have to try it. Orestes!
Orestes enters.
Uncork and serve me a glass!
Orestes takes the bag.
Merchant. You uncork two varieties. And leave the ones with a long neck for another time. Wait, I'll show you.
The merchant and Orestes leave.
Anfisa Karpovna. You wanted to go to the bride. Prokhor Gavrilych. I'll go. Anfisa Karpovna. Why drink wine? Prokhor Gavrilych. So, mummy, I’m in a bit of a good mood these days. I was always sitting at work, I really wanted to refresh my head so that I could have some imagination.
The merchant and Orestes enter with bottles and glasses on a tray and place it on the table.
Merchant ( Orestes). And you, brother, look! If you see that something is empty, you change it, put in a fresh one. Not everyone will call you.
Orestes leaves.
Prokhor Gavrilych ( sits down). Well, now let’s sit down and talk. Merchant. Now, sir! ( Pours wine into glasses and brings it to Prokhor Gavrilych.) Please, sir!
Prokhor Gavrilych takes it and drinks.
Would you like to ask me, madam? Anfisa Karpovna. I can't even see him. Merchant. As it will be; I don’t dare force you, sir. Now I’ll drink it myself, sir. ( Pours himself.) I wish you to be healthy, madam! Anfisa Karpovna. Thank you very much! Eat for your health. Merchant ( drinks). Now is it suddenly different? Otherwise you won’t be able to figure it out with just one. Prokhor Gavrilych. Pour it up!
The merchant pours.
Anfisa Karpovna. It will be for you! Prokhor Gavrilych. Come on, mama! What are we, children, or what? I know myself. Merchant ( serving glasses). Please, sir! I have the honor to congratulate you! ( Drinks by himself.) Prokhor Gavrilych. With what? Merchant. How with what! So what now? Prokhor Gavrilych. And what? Merchant. First Friday of this week. Well, we have the honor to congratulate you. Prokhor Gavrilych. Oh, you're a head! Mama, what a fellow! Anfisa Karpovna. Go quickly! Prokhor Gavrilych. Mommy, I understand. Let's go now. Merchant. Will you order? Prokhor Gavrilych. Pour it up! Anfisa Karpovna. There will be no end to this!
Prokhor Gavrilych and the merchant are drinking.
Prokhor Gavrilych (gets up and approaches his mother; at this time the merchant pours another glass). Mommy, I see that you care about me, and I feel it. Please give me a pen! ( Kisses the hand.) I lead a dirty life - I understand that; What a mother this is nice! Well, I'll leave it. I'll get married and leave. You don’t want me to lead such a life, so I’ll leave it. ( Kisses your hand again.) I am whatever you want for me. Anfisa Karpovna. God forbid! Prokhor Gavrilych ( comes to the table and drinks). I already said, mummy! I have said and done. Merchant. And I, master, waited a long time for you yesterday. Now, madam, I and your son are like an unchanging spear: wherever he goes, there I go. We've been tangling with him for the past week now, I can't part with him, we all travel together. If he goes anywhere on business, I’ll wait in the droshky or sit in the tavern. And lo and behold, by the evening we’ll grab a little bag and go out of town to lie on the grass. It's nice under a bush. Prokhor Gavrilych. You and I will go together today. Anfisa Karpovna. You and your father will go. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well! He will follow us. You wait in the tavern! I'll be there soon. What's there to do for a long time? Let's sit, talk, and the matter is over. It's dry there; They won't serve you anything except tea. And talking to them, pouring empty things into empty things, will also become boring. Merchant. Gimp... ( He pours himself and Prokhor Gavrilych.) Prokhor Gavrilych ( drinks). That's right, brother, it's a bummer. Anfisa Karpovna ( in a pleading voice). Please! Prokhor Gavrilych. Mama, I feel it. What, I have a heart of stone or something! I understand that you don’t like this life, and I don’t like it. You find that it is dirty - and I see that it is dirty. I see, I see, mummy. You don’t like it, so I’ll leave it: I’ll make it fun for you. Anfisa Karpovna. Why don't you leave? Prokhor Gavrilych. Mommy, I'll leave it. Rest assured, I’ll leave it and I won’t put it in my mouth. Merchant ( pouring). Why leave it completely! Prokhor Gavrilych ( takes and drinks). No, brother, I’ll leave it completely. But, Mama, it’s impossible all of a sudden. Merchant. This could even cause harm. Anfisa Karpovna. How are you going to go to the bride? Prokhor Gavrilych. Mama, I know myself. You have to go to the bride like that, not that you’re drunk, that’s too bad; but to have fantasy in your head. Why, without imagination, will I talk to them, Mama? About what? If only I knew something or read some books, then it would be a different matter. This means that I need imagination. Merchant. It's better with imagination. Prokhor Gavrilych. I never talk to women without imagination; I’m kind of timid to approach. And if you have a little imagination, where will the courage come from?
Orestes enters, puts the bottle on the table, and takes away the empty one.
Anfisa Karpovna. Go upstairs, tell the master that it's time to go. Orestes. They can not. Anfisa Karpovna. From what? Orestes. I left the front room for a short time, and they took the bottle away, and they must have finished it. Anfisa Karpovna. He's tyrannizing me! At least go. Prokhor Gavrilych. We, mommy, now. Come on, let's get on the road. Orestes, get the horse ready!
Orestes leaves.
Merchant. And according to the law it follows. ( Pours.) Prokhor Gavrilych. Where is this law? Where is it written? ( Drinks.) Merchant. Yes, even though it is not written, everyone performs it. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, what are your plans? Where are we going this evening? Merchant. What are your plans? My plans are as follows: first of all, go to Maryina Roshcha before dark; and from there along the road to Eldorada. Prokhor Gavrilych. OK then. I won't stay long, about an hour until nine o'clock, no more. Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, go! The horse is waiting. Prokhor Gavrilych. Now, mommy. It is necessary to come to an agreement; otherwise you’ll talk about where to go afterwards, but time flies. Merchant. This is the real deal, sir. Prokhor Gavrilych ( rises). Well, let's go! Goodbye, mummy! ( Kisses the hand.) You see, mummy, I’m on my way. I am everything to you... Whatever you order, I will do. Now I feel like I can talk. Now I can talk about whatever you want... But without imagination it’s just death, you’re afraid to open your mouth. ( Bends over to mother.) And you, Mama, don’t worry about that; it's all over there. Well, that is, about Olenka... Pulcheria Andrevna gossiped to you, you were upset about it; I immediately realized that this was unpleasant for you, so I ended it all. I noticed from your face that you were unpleasant, so I finished. Anfisa Karpovna. Well, good. Prokhor Gavrilych. Finished, finished. Farewell! ( Kisses the hand.) Merchant. And a shortcut for the road. ( Pours.) Anfisa Karpovna. What other road? Merchant. It’s impossible without this, sir.
Prokhor Gavrilych ( taking the hat). Mama, goodbye! Merchant. We ask for forgiveness, madam! Excuse us; because, in fact, we are out of goodwill, and not with the intention of doing anything bad. ( Bows.) Prokhor Gavrilych ( leaving). And you, Mama, don’t worry about that. I told you - that's how it is. I'm done, I'm done.
Anfisa Karpovna. Well, thank God, we left! Well, we should drive this merchant away, but how will you drive him away?-- the right person! What to do, this is the position. The service would not be difficult, but this is what makes it very difficult—acquaintances. Hard service! You try to set him on the path; but in his job he must lead such a company. Not running a company means no income; and hang out with them and you'll end up drunk. Here, use your mind as you wish. But for the mother, both are painful and other things are not sweet. You know, no one gets money for nothing.
Pulcheria Andrevna enters.
What fate! SCENE SIX
Anfisa Karpovna and Pulcheria Andrevna.
Pulcheria Andrevna. Don't be surprised! Even though we quarreled, I still always wished you well and I could never exchange you for some bourgeois woman. And now it turns out that I have to warn you; That’s why I think it’s better for me to forget everything that happened between us. At least you will see from my words how much nobility I have against you. Anfisa Karpovna. I humbly thank you. Pulcheria Andrevna. Because no matter how much we quarrel, you are always more valuable to me, by your rank, than some bourgeois woman. Anfisa Karpovna. What's the matter? I do not understand. Pulcheria Andrevna. The fact is, Anfisa Karpovna, that there are people who, despite all their insignificance, think a lot about themselves and allow themselves a lot. But due to their stupidity, which is innate in their circle, they cannot hide their cunning in any way. Anfisa Karpovna. You speak very wisely. Pulcheria Andrevna. It seems like you could understand; Now you have a business that requires caution and consideration on your part. Anfisa Karpovna. What is the matter? The fact that I want to marry my son is a very ordinary matter. Pulcheria Andrevna. What if there are people who really don’t like it? Anfisa Karpovna. What do I care? Pulcheria Andrevna. If there was no business, would I have come to you? Anfisa Karpovna. Some nonsense. Pulcheria Andrevna. Although your words are offensive to me, I will tell you that they are not trifles. If it were nothing, I wouldn’t come to you. I had to break myself to go to you; and if it were trifles, why would I break myself and come to you? Anfisa Karpovna. Well, tell me if you know what. Pulcheria Andrevna. Of course I do. Anfisa Karpovna. What is it? Pulcheria Andrevna. I told you about one girl. Anfisa Karpovna. I do remember. Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, they want to interfere with your intention. I visited them today, they told me about it. I pretended to listen to them; but, you yourself can understand, can I tolerate some bourgeois woman doing such a nuisance to a noble lady? They imagine that I can be at one with them; but they are very wrong. Anfisa Karpovna. But how can they interfere? Pulcheria Andrevna. Oh my god! You really don't understand! They will go to the bride’s house and tell everything. Anfisa Karpovna. So what's all this? Pulcheria Andrevna. What Prokhor Gavrilych behaves, and various other actions. Anfisa Karpovna. But who will believe them? Pulcheria Andrevna. Why not believe it? Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, you only have to look at my son to not believe any gossip. And they see him often; so he went to them now. Pulcheria Andrevna. Why do you have such a high opinion of your son? Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, if he's worth it. Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, what about strong drinks, what do you say? Anfisa Karpovna. Who saw him drunk? Pulcheria Andrevna. That's great! Yes, I think we saw everything. They rarely see him sober, but they see him drunk almost every day. Anfisa Karpovna. So then you came to disgrace my son in my face? Pulcheria Andrevna. Although not then, what to do when you are so blinded? I must tell you what everyone knows about him. Anfisa Karpovna. You may know this about yourself, but I don’t want to listen to this in advance and I humbly ask you... Pulcheria Andrevna ( rises). Don't worry, don't worry! I have been internally cursing myself for a long time that it occurred to me to come to you. I wanted for your benefit... Anfisa Karpovna. Yes, do me a favor, there’s no need... Pulcheria Andrevna. And if after this my leg ever... Anfisa Karpovna. We will be very, very happy. Pulcheria Andrevna ( leaving). I wouldn't have to bow down either. Anfisa Karpovna ( seeing her off). God forbid! Pulcheria Andrevna ( out the door). Shower me with gold, it seems, so I’ll never come to you! ( Hiding.) Anfisa Karpovna ( in the door). I will serve a prayer service. ACT THREE PERSONS: Tatyana Nikonovna. Olenka. Pulcheria Andrevna. Prokhor Gavrilych. Vavila Osipych.
Decoration for the first act.
SCENE ONETatyana Nikonovna and Olenka are sitting at the table and sewing.
Olenka. Something is missing from our Pulcheria Andrevna. Tatyana Nikonovna. She doesn't have enough to do! She has a lot of care, you and I are not alone. Will you soon go around all of our Palestine? And as soon as she left the house, she would visit all her friends. Olenka. Well, she's already sniffed out everything; At least she would have told me. Tatyana Nikonovna. You speak very freely! And for tea, the cats are scratching at my heart... Olenka. Absolutely nothing. Tatyana Nikonovna ( looking into Olenka's face). I'll believe you, of course! This is how you just cheer yourself up. Olenka. Yes, perhaps don’t believe it; I don't need it! Perhaps that’s why you conclude that I cried yesterday? Tatyana Nikonovna. And even if that’s why. Olenka. So this was just stupidity on my part. There is no point in feeling sorry for him. I foolishly imagined that he would marry me: that’s why I felt offended. But this is not a great find! It’s hard to find something worse, but it’s better now. Tatyana Nikonovna. What else are you coming up with? Look at me! Olenka. Nothing. Do not worry! Tatyana Nikonovna. That's it, nothing! I’ll marry you off, and soon. Olenka. Who is this for, may I ask? For a craftsman for some? Tatyana Nikonovna. Or at least for a craftsman. Olenka. No, please, do me a favor. Whether to go or not - for the noble; otherwise it’s not necessary. Tatyana Nikonovna. There's not much you could want! And if there are no noble ones in store for you... Olenka. It’s not stored up, so it’s not necessary. I'll live like this. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, I don’t want you to live like that and be frivolous. Olenka. Everything will be your way, just don’t get excited, please! Draw me a picture of how to live; That's exactly what I will do. Tatyana Nikonovna. There is nothing to draw. Because the patterns are not sophisticated.
Pulcheria Andrevna enters and sits down.
PHENOMENA SECONDThe same goes for Pulcheria Andrevna.
Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, you can imagine how I found out... Tatyana Nikonovna. Hello! Olenka. How are you? Pulcheria Andrevna. But now I’ll tell you everything in order. Well, here you go: after all, I was there, at the bride’s... Olenka. Were? Pulcheria Andrevna. Was. Even just now from them. Olenka. In what manner? Pulcheria Andrevna. Here's how: our neighbor is selling a shawl - a present, you know. Since they give her a lot of these gifts, she sells half of them. Well, I grabbed this shawl in my arms, and I marched to the Shishanchikovs. Their last name is Shishanchikov. I direct my steps there, and I think: I’ll come as if to sell, and then I’ll start a conversation, they won’t kick me out. I just wish I could go into the house! That's exactly what happened! I come, they report; the old woman herself comes out to me, a respectable, thorough woman... I start a conversation: I, I say, am a noble lady myself, I have heard a lot about you, that you are giving away your daughter, it will be so pleasant for me to serve you. Believe me, I say that I am not out of interest, but actually for you; Well, I went on and on and on and on, I won’t go into my pocket for a word. They ask me for coffee; I make myself at home. Only the old woman says to me: “That’s right, I was, she says, I got my daughter married, but now, it seems, this matter should go our separate way.” Tatyana Nikonovna and Olenka. How so? What are you saying? Pulcheria Andrevna. But listen! “Yesterday,” he says, “the groom put us in great doubt.” And, you know, what a thing he broke off! I left home, already drunk, with my friend and my contractor, but apparently they didn’t think much of it, so they stopped at different places. Where they went astray is unknown; only he showed up to the bride at about eleven o’clock, and that was all with Vavila Osipych. Well, you can imagine how the falcons swooped down! The old woman said to me: “Let’s look at them with my daughter, we’ll take a look, and then we’ll go out,” she says, into another room; we’ll talk and talk, and then we’ll come and have a look again; and we’ll go out again and talk. No, we see, it’s not good, so and they went home and went to bed; how they left, we don’t know.” Well, Tatyana Nikonovna, I sang to them! I say, I listened to your speeches, now listen to mine! Yes, I reprimanded him, my dear friend! I wonder where the words came from! Such words are the most amazing! They immediately wrote a refusal note in front of me and sent it to him with a person. Today is Saturday: he doesn’t go to the presence, so now he got it a long time ago; I sat with them for another half hour after that. Tatyana Nikonovna. Now, look, he’ll come here. Olenka. He will come today, I already know him. ( Thinking.) Tatyana Nikonovna. What are you thinking? Olenka. Yes, we need to come up with more sarcastic words. Tatyana Nikonovna. Come up with it, come up with it! And I'll add more later. What, you fool, are you glad? Olenka. Yes, of course, I’m glad; just wait, mommy, don’t interfere! The words in my head, one after another, curl in a ball, just so as not to forget. Pulcheria Andrevna. And how pleased I am, Tatyana Nikonovna, that they knocked down the force! Otherwise I wouldn’t have talked to them. Now their arrogance will be reduced by an inch. Tatyana Nikonovna ( looking out the window). No way, is he going? He! He! Yes, and with the merchant. Pulcheria Andrevna. Hide me somewhere! I wouldn't want him to see me here. Tatyana Nikonovna. But please go behind the partition!
Pulcheria Andrevna leaves.
Well, Olenka, now scold him thoroughly and drive him away. Place it on the threshold, three necks from the gate. Olenka. It's not smart to drive away! We will always have time to drive away. Tatyana Nikonovna. So what? Olenka. But you need to force him to marry, that’s what! Tatyana Nikonovna. You, girl, want to be too clever! Olenka. Why yawn? Nowadays, they say, there are fewer fools; Just wait and see if another one will come running soon.
Vasyutin enters and stops at the door.
PHENOMENA THIRDTatyana Nikonovna, Olenka and Prokhor Gavrilych.
Prokhor Gavrilych ( in the door). Look, Vavila Osipych, just wait! Olenka. I even, Mama, cannot understand how people can have no conscience at all! They do so many nasty things in life, and they are not ashamed to look people in the eye! Tatyana Nikonovna. There are different people. Some people have shame, but others, even if you have a stake on their head, they don’t care. Prokhor Gavrilych ( sits down). Well, what are you talking about! Do you know why I came to you? Olenka. We don't even need to know. We forgot to think about you. Tatyana Nikonovna. An uninvited guest is worse than a Tatar. Prokhor Gavrilych. But I’ve changed my mind about getting married. Olenka. What do we care about this! Whether you get married or not, we really don’t care. Tatyana Nikonovna. Come on, have you changed your mind? Olenka. Wasn't the carriage brought? Prokhor Gavrilych. Who is this carriage for? I then? I'd like to see it! I didn't want to. What, I think, tie myself down! I will always have time to get married. Are there not enough brides in Moscow? Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, yes, yes! Why do you want to tie yourself down?
They both laugh.
Prokhor Gavrilych. Why are you laughing! It means you don’t know how to appreciate a person. How do you know, maybe I'm out of love for her ( points to Olenka) didn't get married? Tatyana Nikonovna. They didn't want to offend the girl. This is very good of you.
Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, yes! What is this! That's why I didn't get married. I didn’t want to offend you, that’s why I didn’t get married. That's what I am! I wanted to prove to you that I love you, and I did. What a lovely bride she was! I don’t want to, I say, and that’s all. Olenka, I say, is dearer to me than anything in the world. Olenka. Thank you very much for this! Prokhor Gavrilych. So I say to my mother: “The bride is in love with me; well, let her suffer! But I wouldn’t trade Olenka for anyone.” Tatyana Nikonovna. So you love my daughter very much? Prokhor Gavrilych. Yes, it’s impossible not to love her, Tatyana Nikonovna! I’ll tell you this: I’ve never loved anyone like that, and I never will. She needs to be made rich: that’s the kind of girl she is! Olenka. What cruelties you say. Prokhor Gavrilych. What cruelty! I have such a character. If I love someone, I won’t regret anything. Whatever your heart desires, I do now. I don't count money for anything. Olenka. No, this is very cruel to my heart! I don’t even know how to respond to such tenderness. For mercy's sake, am I worth such love from you? Tatyana Nikonovna. What the hell, look, don’t throw yourself on his neck for such good deeds! Olenka. And even then, Mama, I can barely control my feelings! ( Laughs.) That's how they love us, mama! Tatyana Nikonovna. We are very grateful to you, father. ( Bows .) Olenka. Have you expressed all your love, or is there anything left? Prokhor Gavrilych. I can actually prove it. Olenka. We are very sorry that your love came at the wrong time. Prokhor Gavrilych. Why not at the right time? Olenka. You got it a little late. I'm getting married. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, father, I found her a groom. Prokhor Gavrilych. How to get married? For whom? Tatyana Nikonovna. This, father, is our business. Prokhor Gavrilych. Can't be! You must have done it on purpose. Tatyana Nikonovna. Believe it or not, it's up to you. Only, father, this is what: don’t bother yourself, don’t come to us. Olenka. Yes, do me such a favor, I ask you. Prokhor Gavrilych. When did you manage to do this? Tatyana Nikonovna. How long, father! Olenka, you need to get dressed! Olenka. Yes, mummy. I think the groom will come soon. Prokhor Gavrilych. So it's over for you? Tatyana Nikonovna. It's over, father, it's over. Yes, and the room needs to be tidied up. Prokhor Gavrilych. No, whatever you want, I won’t leave here. Tatyana Nikonovna. Noble people don't do that. They came for no one knows why, they made themselves at home, and they can’t kick you out. Prokhor Gavrilych. Demand whatever you want from me, take whatever you want from me, just don’t get married. I won't stand for anything. You know how accustomed I am to you; I'll go crazy without you. Olenka. I wouldn't marry anyone; but mummy wants it. Tatyana Nikonovna. Why don't you go? Olenka. You know it yourself. Tatyana Nikonovna. I know I know. They do mean things against you, but you are ready to forgive everything, because you have a good heart. You cry and agonize over him, but he’s not even worth your glance. Goodbye, father! Prokhor Gavrilych. No, wait! Is she crying for me? Tatyana Nikonovna. Of course she cries. She doesn’t show it in front of you on purpose, she pretends to be cheerful; and without you, look what he’s doing... When will you leave us alone? Prokhor Gavrilych. Now! So, does that mean you love me? Yes, I always knew that. Olenka. Of course I love; but mamma, having learned all this, certainly wants me to get married. I will not leave my mother’s will; I already feel like I have a lot to blame against her. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, now I won’t let her leave me even one step until I marry her off. Olenka. It goes without saying that, due to my love for you, I cannot leave you indifferent; It would seem that the century has not parted... Tatyana Nikonovna. That's why I'm a mother, to look after you! Why aren’t you coming! Will this end? Prokhor Gavrilych. I will not leave you, and your wedding will not happen; I'll marry her myself. Tatyana Nikonovna. When will this happen? After the rain on Thursday? Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, in a month. Tatyana Nikonovna. Long wait, father! A lot of water will leak in a month. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, yes, believe me. Olenka. It's impossible to believe it. Prokhor Gavrilych. From what? Olenka. Because you're lying all the time. After all, what did you tell us here; and we know everything. We know how you came to your fiancée drunk yesterday, how they sent you a note this morning. Tatyana Nikonovna. That means you can’t be trusted. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, here’s the thing: I don’t have much to talk with my father, I just need to persuade my mother. So, I’ll give you an answer in half an hour. If mommy agrees, then at least there’s a wedding tomorrow. Tatyana Nikonovna. In half an hour - very soon; why is there such a hurry? But if you don’t give us an answer by the evening, then we will bless her in the evening. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, then goodbye! Goodbye, Olenka! ( Kisses her.) Olenka ( seeing him off). Just don’t go anywhere with the merchant! Prokhor Gavrilych. No, I'm straight home. ( Leaves.) Tatyana Nikonovna. Now it probably won't fail. Olenka. Yes, it looks like it. But I, Mama, will be a lady anywhere! Tatyana Nikonovna. Still would! Only, oh - how empty the fellow is! Olenka. Still better than a craftsman. Tatyana Nikonovna. What should I say! Olenka. But I’ll get my hands on it after the wedding.
Pulcheria Andrevna enters.
SCENE FOURThe same goes for Pulcheria Andrevna.
Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, did you drive away? Tatyana Nikonovna. Why drive! Good people are not persecuted. Pulcheria Andrevna. How long has it been since he became for you? a kind person? Olenka. He has always been a kind person, but he is a little absent-minded. Pulcheria Andrevna. From your words, I notice that you have made peace with him. This is very strange to me! After everything he did against you, if I were you, I wouldn’t even let him see me. Olenka. Believe me, I would do the same. But he showed himself to be very noble against me. Even in today's world there are very few such people. Pulcheria Andrevna. I don't understand this, excuse me. Tatyana Nikonovna. Why can’t we understand? Very simple. He marries Olenka. Pulcheria Andrevna. He! On Olenka! Are you joking or laughing at me? Tatyana Nikonovna. We don't think so at all. And why is this so surprising for you! What do you find so strange here, I would like to know? Pulcheria Andrevna. But what, is he crazy, perhaps, from drunkenness? Tatiana Nikononna. How do you conclude that he is crazy? Pulcheria Andrevna. Yes from everything. Tatyana Nikonovna. No, however? Pulcheria Andrevna. Is it really possible to do such things in your right mind? Olenka. He wanted to marry someone else; Why shouldn’t he marry me? I don’t consider myself any worse than others. Pulcheria Andrevna. Still, he should not sully his rank. Olenka. But what is there to dirty this with? Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, your husband took you, were you better than Olenka? Pulcheria Andrevna. Then there were completely different concepts about life than now. Tatyana Nikonovna. So you don’t like that Vasyutin is marrying my daughter? Pulcheria Andrevna. Of course, she is not a match for him. Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, I’m sorry that they did the job without asking you! Let's ask questions ahead. How we made a mistake, I don’t even know! Such a smart lady was not consulted! And how he dared without your permission is amazing to me! He should come to you and ask: should I, Pulcheria Andrevna, marry Olenka or not? Pulcheria Andrevna. Don't say any harsh things to me! I don't want to hear them from you. Tatyana Nikonovna. Do you think we want to listen to you? Why did you show us your importance? Who needs it! Why are you boasting before us! Olenka. Leave it alone, mommy! Let them say what they want. Tatyana Nikonovna. No, wait! I won't let anyone hurt you. There’s no need to live in this world if you allow yourself to be cursed at in your own home. Pulcheria Andrevna ( rises). Due to your lack of education, you can swear; but I will never allow myself to do this, because I consider it ignorance. But I will still tell you and will always say that your daughter is in no way a match for Vasyutin. Tatyana Nikonovna. Nobody forbids you to speak. Say what you want, just somewhere else, not here. Pulcheria Andrevna. You only need to entangle such fools as Vasyutin. Olenka. You are very smart; Yes, it’s a pity that it’s inopportune. Tatyana Nikonovna. Eh, someone else’s happiness is in your throat! Just wait, we’ll show you something! So my daughter and I will get dressed and ride around in a carriage on our horses. What will you say then? Pulcheria Andrevna. You don’t even know how to sit in a stroller. Tatyana Nikonovna. We won’t come to you to study, don’t worry! Pulcheria Andrevna. There's nothing for me to worry about; I'm very calm. Tatyana Nikonovna. And it’s wonderful if they’re dead. You should have left us alone too! Pulcheria Andrevna. And I'll leave it. I can’t stay for a second after such insulting words. Tatyana Nikonovna. Yes, and foretold... Pulcheria Andrevna. Of course. ( Approaching the door.) No, what gratitude is there today! After all, if you tell people this, they won’t believe it. By whose grace was Vasyutin denied? Tatyana Nikonovna. I guess according to you? Yes, even if it were according to you, you still didn’t do it for us; Yes, no one asked you about this, and so, they pleased their hearts. Can you live without slander? Pulcheria Andrevna. What do you think I am, an asp? I humbly thank you for this opinion. Tatyana Nikonovna. Do not mention it. Anything else, I won’t be able to deal with that. Pulcheria Andrevna. No, it’s unbearable even how much freedom you give yourself! Tatyana Nikonovna. Who should I be afraid of in my house! Whoever is worth something, that’s how I value him. Pulcheria Andrevna. I have always been and will be more precious than you. Tatyana Nikonovna. Who are you dear to? Well, your happiness! You would go there, where you are highly valued! But we are an ungrateful people, we don’t feel your good deeds, we don’t need your nobility, so why would you want to make acquaintance with us! Pulcheria Andrevna. Well, it's over now! Now I understand you very well. Tatyana Nikonovna. And thank God! Pulcheria Andrevna. So I realized that I even consider your acquaintance to be low for me! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, low, just dance for us! Pulcheria Andrevna. That's education! Tatyana Nikonovna. Sorry! Next time you come, we’ll send you away more politely. Pulcheria Andrevna. What have I brought myself to! Where I am? My God! There is still so much ignorance on our side that it is impossible to describe. And with such concepts, people even find suitors from a noble rank! The world must be ending soon. ( In the door.) Although I don’t equate myself with you in any way, I still won’t forget your insult. ( Leaves.) Tatyana Nikonovna ( approaching the door). Dance, dance! ( Daughters.) Well, now he won’t come for a long time. I scolded her, she will remember! Olenka. You yourself will miss her. ( Looking out the window.) Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, no, not soon. I’m a sinner: that’s right, I love to chat, gossip, and I’m very glad when I have someone to talk to; Yes, she really got to me with her malice. You can’t talk to her often, a lot of blood spoils. Who are you looking at? Olenka. Yes, I see. Tatyana Nikonovna. What's there to hide? You are waiting for a dear friend. And look, he’s now hanging out somewhere with a merchant with this and has forgotten to think about you. Olenka. But they were wrong. It's coming. Tatyana Nikonovna. Is it really coming? Olenka. Right! Tatyana Nikonovna. Well, God will give something! Girl, my heart started pounding. Olenka. And me too, mommy.
Vasyutin enters. Both look at him silently.
SCENE FIFTHThe same goes for Prokhor Gavrilych.
Prokhor Gavrilych. Why are you looking at me like that? Tatyana Nikonovna. We're waiting to hear what you say. Can't you see it took our breath away? Prokhor Gavrilych. What can I say! Now it’s yours, at least harness it to the cart!
Olenka throws herself on his neck.
Tatyana Nikonovna. Kiss me too, old woman. ( Kisses him.) Well, that's okay! Today we will bless you; and in a week we’ll have a wedding. Prokhor Gavrilych. As you wish. The sooner the better for me. He got married, and to the side, so that there would be less conversation. Tatyana Nikonovna. Of course. Well, how did you settle things at home? Prokhor Gavrilych. I persuaded my mother by force. There's something I haven't cleaned up! Yes, after yesterday, my head hurts, so I can’t collect my thoughts; otherwise I would have said something wrong to her. “You, I say, want me to fall into melancholy, mamma. You know, I say, what a person does out of melancholy, what he is drawn to?” Well, I was scared; agreed, only to live apart. Olenka. Yes, that's even better. Prokhor Gavrilych. And it’s freer for me too. Well, then he made her laugh and kissed her hands. She blessed me, and I went to you. Tatyana Nikonovna. Oh, my darling! Well, now I’m going to look after you like your own mother. Olenka. I should scold you, I should; well, God be with you! Prokhor Gavrilych. What is this for? Olenka. And because you wanted to change me. After all, what did you come up with? Marry an educated young lady! Firstly, you tormented my entire soul, and secondly, what stupidity on your part! Mama, I was so offended that he was deceiving me, how annoying that he was playing the fool of himself. No, wait, I'll tell you this later. After all, that’s where it goes! Well, is she a match for you? Prokhor Gavrilych. What is this! I myself... Olenka. What are you? Nothing. She needs a master's groom; what kind of gentleman are you? Which side? You just stole money, and you already think about yourself that everyone should submit to you. Prokhor Gavrilych. If you think about me like that, what kind of love can you have for me! And what kind of hunt do I have... Olenka. Wait, don't interrupt! Let me express everything: ease my heart so that there is no evil left, and then we’ll all kiss. Prokhor Gavrilych. Well, maybe chat if your tongue itches! Olenka. Well, suppose you married her; what good would come of this? If she had a free spirit, she would laugh at you and take a lover; and if she were meek, she would dry up looking at you. But I already know you; You won’t surprise me with your ugly life! I know how to stop you, and I know how to receive your guests, and I will also teach you taste, how to dress and how to behave more noblely. And you wanted to leave me completely! Well, what kind of person are you after that! ( Crying.) Prokhor Gavrilych. Sorry! After all, you’ll get caught up in our life; and then mommy pesters me. Olenka. Well, God be with you! I only upset myself. Let's make it up.
They kiss.
Tatyana Nikonovna. That's better! God give you advice and love! Prokhor Gavrilych. Why is Vavila Osipych not coming?
Vavila Osipych enters with a bag of wine.
SCENE SIXSame with Vavila Osipych.
Merchant. And here I am! Our respect to the hostess! Young lady, I wish you good health. ( Bows.) Prokhor Gavrilych. Why did you hesitate? Merchant. And I ran in and grabbed a small bag of wine. Mistress, is there any vessel? If there are no glasses, you can use a tea cup; It happened to us more than once, we are experienced people. Tatyana Nikonovna. How could there not be glasses! ( Goes behind the partition.) Merchant. And I always carry a corkscrew, young lady. I have a folding one, with a knife, but now I don’t need one. All you need is a knife. I, master, ordered the tar to be knocked down and the wire to be unscrewed; Just cut the strings and that's it. ( Takes a corkscrew out of his pocket.) Tatyana Nikonovna ( brings glasses on a tray). Here, father, are the glasses! Merchant. It's even more capable in a glass! ( He uncorks it, pours it and brings it to Tatyana Nikonovna..) I have the honor to congratulate you! Welcome, mistress! Tatyana Nikonovna. Oh, a lot! Merchant. Please, without ceremony, sir! Tatyana Nikonovna ( takes a glass). Well, God give you every joy. ( Kisses Vasyutin and his daughter, takes a sip.) Merchant ( without taking a glass). We ask for everything! Tatyana Nikonovna. It's hard, father! Merchant. Nothing, sir. Not intoxicating, it will pass.
Tatyana Nikonovna finishes her drink and hands over the glass. He pours it and brings it to Olenka.
Please, sir. Olenka. I do not drink. Merchant. It’s impossible, sir! Olenka. Really, I can’t. Merchant. It's absolutely impossible, sir. Tatyana Nikonovna. Have a little drink!
Olenka kisses Vasyuti and drinks a little.
Merchant. This is impossible, sir. Leave no evil, sir! Olenka. I assure you that I cannot. Merchant. You're welcome! Don't delay, sir! Prokhor Gavrilych. Drink, if you don't want to!
Olenka finishes his drink.
Merchant ( pours and brings it to Vasyutin). Please, sir. Prokhor Gavrilych. Mommy, for your health! Olenka, to your health! ( Kisses and drinks.) Merchant ( pours). Now I’ll drink it myself! We have the honor for many years to come! So that you can get rich, and we can be happy about you, and always keep company! ( Drinks and kisses everyone.) Very nice, sir! Now, hostess, we come to you every evening. Tatyana Nikonovna. You are welcome, father! Prokhor Gavrilych. We, Mama, are now your guests. Merchant. We'll build a nest here! But you, hostess, don’t worry about provisions for the future - that’s my concern. I’ll bring you more tomorrow at once, so that it will last for a long time. ( Uncorks another bottle and pours.) Prokhor Gavrilych. Again in the same order! Merchant. As usual. Ladies first. Tatyana Nikonovna. Father, excuse me! Merchant. Well, Prokhor Gavrilych, this is how our line will go in order. ( Presents it to Tatyana Nikonovna.) Tatyana Nikonovna. Just let me breathe a little! Merchant. Don't delay, sir!
Once upon a time they lived in a distant Siberian village, in a small but cozy home, three phones: a mobile phone, a radiotelephone and an old rotary telephone. When the owners went to bed, they liked to gather in the kitchen over a cup of tea and discuss last news who heard what? One day the mobile phone said to the rotary phone:
I don’t understand how the owners tolerate you, they would have thrown you out long ago! You are of no use, you are lying in your closet on the top shelf, just taking up space and gathering dust! There’s nothing to talk to you about, you just listen to us, but you yourself have nothing to say. For example, my owners need me so much that they always take me with them.
The radiotelephone picked up:
- Can you even remember the last time you were turned on? Children don’t even know how to use you, and they don’t need it. I would be completely behind the times if we didn’t tell you about what’s going on in the world! Of course, the owners feel sorry for you, you did a great job! But you would have had your conscience if you had left the house...
And the mobile phone interrupted:
- I'll be nice before they throw you and the old trash into a landfill and break your pipe or disk!
For a long time, two new telephones cursed the old rotary telephone, and they did not notice how he, hanging his head, quietly moving his plastic body, went away in tears, wherever his eyes looked.
No one in the house noticed the disappearance of the rotary telephone. Life went on as usual. Now two phones were communicating in the kitchen. And, although they missed the company of a grateful, enthusiastic listener, they did not admit this to each other.
Several weeks have passed. Rainy autumn days have arrived. Every day it rained and the wind blew. One morning the wind rose so strong that by lunchtime it grew into a strong hurricane. Thunder rumbled, lightning flashed, rain poured down non-stop. Trees were knocked down and electrical wires were downed. Such natural phenomena led to the fact that our village was left completely without electricity. Urgent repair of power lines was required!
How do we notify the city that we need help? Due to bad weather, cellular communications refused to work, and even without additional electrical charging Cell phones soon turned off. Radiotelephones also did not work without power supply. The downpours washed out the road, making it impossible to get out of the village in a passenger car.
And then the Sinitsyns remembered that somewhere in the closet they had an old rotary telephone - now they would plug it into a special socket for a telephone plug, call the city and report that they needed help. Specialists will arrive from the city in a big car, they will repair everything, and there will be light and communications in the village! But that was not the case. The owners began to look for the phone. The whole house was ransacked, there is no phone. They began to talk loudly about how much they needed a rotary telephone, how good it was! Even though he worked for twenty years, he still looked like new. And what a joyful color it was - orange. And they lamented, had he really been thrown away? Who could do this? Is it some kind of fool?
Meanwhile, our telephone, when he was offended, did not go far. He hid under a low table on the porch and sat there all this time. But when I heard how much everyone needed him, he didn’t get proud, but showed his bright side. The hostess immediately saw him and exclaimed:
- Well, finally, you have been found, my dear! And who thought of putting you here?
We called the city. Soon the lights came on in the houses and the equipment started working. All the village residents were grateful to the phone and said how well done the Sinitsins were for saving it!
After this incident, the rotary telephone was not turned off; it worked on a par with a radiotelephone. The phone friends apologized for their ignorance and our hero, of course, forgave them. And kitchen gatherings have resumed!
Conversation about friendship and about each other.
Tasks:
Generalization of students’ ideas about ethical values;
- maintaining good relationships between students;
- improving the ability to work in a team;
- fostering a respectful and tolerant attitude towards other people;
- broadening your horizons.
Equipment: Ozhegov's dictionary, painted candy, colored paper for palms, a blank palm-trunk with the inscription “Tree of Friendship”, blanks of rays of the sun, a blank of the sun with the inscription “Sun of Friendship”, a collection of “Russian folk riddles, proverbs, sayings”, cards with proverbs (beginning - on a white sheet, ending - on orange), air balloons(16 pcs.), cards with a proverb code (20 pcs.), assistant card.
Music
:
During the classes
Shainsky's song “About Friendship” is played
What do you think our lesson will be about today? (About friendship, about a friend.)
2. Introduction to the topic.
Today we will talk about friendship, about how you need to be friends so as not to lose friends.
Listen to the parable.
High, high in the mountains there lived a shepherd. One day, on a stormy night, three people knocked on his door.
My hut is small, only one can enter. Who are you? - asked the shepherd.
We are friendship, happiness and wealth. Who to open the door to - choose yourself!
The shepherd chose friendship. Friendship came, happiness came, and wealth appeared.
What problem did the shepherd face?
What decision did he make?
Completing a developmental task
Decipher the proverb that expresses main idea this parable.
Children receive printouts of the assignment.
Work in pairs .
Answer. Friendship is more valuable than wealth.
- Explain the meaning of this proverb.
3. Work in groups (divide children into groups)
- What is friendship?
(Children talk about their friends, those with whom they play, and spend their free time).
- Where can we learn more precisely about what friendship is? (Ask adults, read in the dictionary, find on the Internet.)
- I suggest you use these sources:
1) 1 group looking for this word in explanatory dictionary Ozhegova;2nd group - ask adults, i.e. from teachers.
2) - Now let’s talk to each group, tell us what answers you found.
-The goal of our group : find out what “friendship” is
1gr. - in the explanatory dictionary; (“Friendship is a close relationship based on mutual trust, affection, common interests.” S. I. Ozhegov “Explanatory Dictionary”).
2 gr. - ask adults.
(Children read out the answers at the board in groups.)
4.
So, guys, we found out what friendship is. But without whom can friendship not take place?
- Of course, there is no friendship without friends.
That is the question?
Guys, what is a proverb? (A short speech expression, literally a few words, which was composed by the people)
People says:“It’s not without reason that the proverb says” because every proverb is an important life rule, including the rules of communication,rules of friendship.
Now1 group will try to answer the 1st question:What should a true friend be like? - You have models of children’s hands on your desks (handouts). Your task is to choose the qualities of a true friend and write them on your palms.
To help you with this, I have prepared a helper card. On it you see different qualities, inherent in man. Try to choose those that a true friend should have. (Children in the group work together to choose the qualities of a person and write them on their palms.)
Helper card “Qualities of a true friend”
A2nd group will try to withdrawrules of friendship with the help of scattered proverbs, which you must first collect and then write down on rays. On cards of blue color- the beginnings of phrases, on the green cards - their ends. And find several proverbs in the collection “Russian folk riddles, proverbs, sayings.
3 group Together they will draw a portrait of a real friend (one draws the head, the other the eyes, etc. in a circle).
Presentation of the results of the groups’ work on whatman paper “World of Friendship”
Well, let's see what qualities a true friend should have in order for friendship to grow and strengthen like this tree. (1 group presents his hand designs, justifying the choice of qualities. Here you can ask why certain qualities were not selected. Palms are hung on whatman paper, constructing a tree called"Qualities of a Friend" ).
Now let's find out whatrules of friendship It is necessary to remember that the friendship is strong. (2nd group presents his models of rays with proverbs about friendship, collecting them into a single sun on the same Whatman paper, designing them as “Rules of Friendship"). (The guys receive envelopes and complete the task.)
Friend is known in trouble).
old friend, better (new two).
I gave everything to my friend - (became richer).
Strong friendship and (you can’t cut it with an ax).
There is no friend - look, but (found - take care).
A good friend always (arrives on time).
The enemy agrees, and (the friend argues).
Don’t have a hundred rubles, but have (a hundred friends).
A man without friends……(like a tree without roots).
Friendship is like glass... (if you break it, you can’t put it back together).
(
3 group
places a portrait of a true friend on whatman paper)
5. Now let's see how friendly you are. I offer you games.
Game "Magic Candy"
Children stand in a circle. The child receives a small drawn “magic candy”, passing it around in a circle, everyone must say something bright about their neighbor.
Game "True Friends"
Divide the hall into 2 parts with chalk. 1 part -"land", another -"sea". Children hold hands and walk in a circle to the music. Whenmusic ends, everyone stops. Those children from the circle who find themselves on “land” must save those who find themselves in the “sea”. To do this, children perform various tasks given to them by the presenter. As soon as the child completes the task, one of his friends moves from the “sea” to the “land” and also helps save the others.
Examples of tasks:
Say a proverb about friendship.
Name several characters from books who had many friends (“The Wizard of the Emerald City”, “Chuk and Gek”, “Teremok”, “The Adventures of Pinocchio”, “Carlson and the Kid”, “Caprizka”).
Name 5 faithful friends of man from the animal world (cat, dog, horse, hamster, cow).
Talk about your friend (if you have one) or say what friendship is.
5. Answer 3 questions:
a) It’s easier to live with or without a friend:
b) Should there be many or few friends?
c) Does everyone need a friend for life?
What qualities do you value most in a friend?
I will name the hero, and you will have to name his friend:
a) Green crocodile Gena and... (Cheburashka)
b) Trusting Pinocchio and... (Malvina)
c) Funny bear Winnie the Pooh and ... (Piglet)
d) Which girl rescued her friend Kai from ice captivity? (Gerda)
Name words that can be used to express:
-gratitude (Thank you, thank you, I am grateful to you., I am grateful..),
- greet (Hello, hello, how glad I am to see you, good afternoon (evening, morning)),
- ask for forgiveness (Sorry, please, sorry.),
-words that can be used to make a request (Please, be kind.)
Game “Let's compliment each other.”
Students choose a pair based on eye color and meet each other halfway. The one who gave a compliment or praised him for something takes a step forward. The pair that goes the fastest way wins.
Game "Magic Thickets"
Each child (in turn) tries to penetrate the center of the circle formed by the “magic thickets” pressed closely together - the other children.
"Thickets" understand human speech and are sensitive to touch . They may let the child into the center of the circle, or they may not let them in if they are asked poorly.
(At the end of the exercise, a discussion is held: “In what case did the “thickets” bloom and why? In what case did they not let the child into the circle?”)
Game "Caterpillar"
Take balloons and form a chain. Place the ball between your stomach and the back of your friend standing in front of you. Place your hands on the shoulders of the person in front. So, we have turned into one big caterpillar that must follow a certain route.
(To the song “If you go on a journey with a friend "The caterpillar moves through the group)
Great, we did it! Well done!
6. Summary
- Guys, remind me - what did the heroes build in the cartoon “Crocodile Gena”?(House of Friendship)
- In conclusion, I also suggest you build a House of Friendship. Stand in a circle, extend your hand to the neighbor on your right and left.Let's sing a song about friendship and friends.(preliminary work: memorizing the song “
Friendship is strong...")
Exercise “Bridge of Friendship”
The teacher asks the children to form pairs if they wish, to come up with and show a bridge (using their arms, legs, and torso). Then build a bridge with three, four, etc. The exercise ends with everyone joining hands, making a circle and raising their hands up, depicting the “Bridge of Friendship.”
Helper card
Devotion, modesty, envy, selfishness, loyalty, goodwill, perseverance, indifference, boasting, willingness to help, honesty, attention, trust, tolerance, courage, determination, anger, flattery, responsiveness, sociability.
Friend is known in trouble).
An old friend is better than two new ones).
I gave everything to my friend - (became richer).
Strong friendship and (you can’t cut it with an ax).
There is no friend - look, but (found - take care).
A good friend always (arrives on time).
The enemy agrees, and (the friend argues).
Friendship is like glass... (if you break it, you can’t put it back together).
devotion
modesty
envy,
selfishness
loyalty
goodwill
persistently
ness
indifference
boasting
helpfulness
honesty
attention
confidence
tolerance
courage
determination
anger
flattery
responsiveness
sociability
stubbornness
Svetlana Khramtsova
Summary of educational activities for speech development “My friends” (senior group)
Subject: "My Friends
Target: to develop an understanding that friendships depend on the behavior of each child.
Tasks:
Improve dialogical speech, learn to conduct a coordinated dialogue; - Learn to be friendly interlocutors; - Develop connected speech, abilities of judgment and inference, that is, to reveal the meaning of proverbs; - Foster feelings of camaraderie and mutual assistance; - Help you understand that friendship gives you the joy of communication and you need to be able to deliver friends this joy.
Vocabulary work: enrich children's speech adjectives: kind, loyal, honest, brave, selfless, friendly, courageous, truthful, sympathetic, attentive, reliable.
Integration: "Communication", "Socialization", "Reading fiction» , "Music"
Activities: communicative, playful, motor, perception of fiction.
Methods and techniques: verbal, game, surprise moment
Forms: conversation, dramatization, game, story.
Equipment: bell, tape recorder, audio recordings: songs by V. Shainsky "Faithful Friends» , "Baby by the River" a series "Voices of Nature", "Seven-flowered flower"; flowers made of colored paper with photographs of children in the middle, applique with a vase, illustration of two girls in one dress, bear costumes (2 pieces, barrels, seven-flowered flower.
Preliminary work: reading a story by L. N. Tolstoy "Two Comrades", conversation based on a story; reading a story by K. Ushinsky “Together it’s cramped, but apart it’s boring”, conversation on it; explanation of proverbs and sayings about friendship; memorizing poems about friendship; holding games that promote development communicative qualities of children; "Tell your neighbor a compliment", "Guess who?"; preparation of performances with children.
GCD move:
Guys, today we will talk about... No, I won’t tell you anything, you will guess everything now. Listen to the song (the song is playing "Faithful Friends» V. Shainsky)
Can you guess what we're going to talk about?
(We will talk about friendship and real friends)
What is friendship? (Friendship is when children play together, share toys, and do not quarrel).
Every person has (it should be) friend, isn't it? I'm sure you have Friends? Who has a friend? Why do you consider... your friend? (Answers 2 - 3 children).
Think and say who you can call your friend. (A friend can be called someone who is ready to share both your joy and your grief, and, if necessary, give you everything he has).
Does it happen that friends sometimes quarrel? (Yes, sometimes).
How should you treat your friend?
Does it happen that friends sometimes quarrel? (Yes, sometimes).
What should you do to avoid quarreling? (To avoid quarreling, you need to share toys, give in to each other in an argument, follow the rules of the game, and be able to forgive).
I think if we follow these rules, then in our group there will never be quarrels.
Guys, don't you hear anything?
Staging. (Gourmand Bear enters with a barrel of honey).
Gourmand: What a big barrel of honey I have, and the honey is fragrant, linden, now I’ll eat it. (Gourmand eats honey).
Educator: This is the Gourmand bear cub. He has such a sweet tooth and cannot live a day without sweets.
Gourmand: What delicious honey. (He eats everything and a second bear cub appears. Toptyzhka with a barrel of honey)
Educator: And here is our friend Gourmand - the bear cub Toptyzhka.
Toptyzhka: Gourmand, where are you? How good is it that I found you?
Gourmand: Well, what do you want?
Toptyzhka: Mom gave me honey, I want to treat you. Help yourself, please. (The gourmand becomes ashamed, he lowers his head).
Gourmand: No need, eat it yourself, I don’t want to.
Gourmand: Thank you, Toptyzhka, for the treat and for the lesson.
Educator: Guys, why do you think Lakomka is like this? said: “Thank you for the treat and for the lesson”(Gourmand said so because he felt ashamed: he ate everything alone and did not share with a friend).
What do you think Toptyzhka taught Gourmand? (Toptyzhka taught Lakomka to share, not to forget about his friends).
It seems to me that Lakomka is still learning how to make friends. Sweetie, stay with us and the guys will tell you what a real friend should be like? (A true friend should be: kind, loyal, honest, brave, selfless, friendly, devoted, generous, courageous, sympathetic, attentive, reliable).
That's right, this is what a true friend should be. And now Dasha and Karina want to show and tell us something.
(Staging: "Girlfriends")
Dasha: I’ll tell and show the guys everything now.
Karina: Why are you? I also want to tell you.
Dasha: I will tell.
Karina: No, I'll tell you.
(The girls take offense at each other and go in different directions).
Dasha: Well, we quarreled again. Karina, maybe we can tell you together.
Karina: You tell me, and I’ll hold the picture.
Dasha: Okay, listen. Karina and I were walking in the park, we saw an artist and asked him to draw us. He looked at us and drew this strange picture and wrote something.
Educator: Indeed, a strange picture. The artist painted two girlfriends dressed in the same dress and signed picture: “Together it’s cramped, but apart it’s boring”. Why?
(The artist painted the girlfriends this way because they are always there, they love to play together, but sometimes they quarrel. And when they break up, they miss each other).
Educator: Yes, Karina and Dasha are friends, they are always close and, despite their quarrels, they miss each other. Therefore, the artist painted such a picture and signed it like this. Girls, do you understand everything?
Girls: Yes, thank you guys, we understand everything, we won’t quarrel anymore.
Educator: Well done guys, you helped your friends. Sit down girls. Guys, do you like to play with friends? (Yes).
I offer you a game "Give me a smile" and you, Gourmand, stand in a circle with us.
Children stand in a circle. At the presenter's (child) holding a bell in his hands. He walks inside the circle with the words (Children in a circle walk towards the child):
I walk along the path and give everyone a smile. Smile and it will be more fun together.
The presenter stops and gives the bell to the child standing opposite him with a smile. The game repeats itself. Well done. Sit down.
Now listen to a poem about friendship. (Child reads a poem)
We really need a friend in our lives, Life is more fun for us with a friend. Next to him, in any cold weather, we feel warmer. We all need to cherish sincere and honest friendship, Because, as you know, Without we can't make friends.
Educator: The Russian people have long valued true, strong friendship and came up with the idea of friendship and friends many proverbs and sayings. Please remember them and try to explain them.
Life is hard without a friend. - Without a friend there is a blizzard in the heart. - To a true friend no price. - A tree lives by its roots, but a person friends. - Look for a friend, and if you find him, take care. - Don’t have a hundred rubles, but have a hundred friends. - old friend, better than the new two. - A man without friends like a bird without wings.
Well done. Guys, I suggest you make up unusual bouquet friends. (The teacher brings the children to a table on which there are paper flowers with photographs of children in the middle, and an applique of a vase on the board).
Look, there are flowers on the table with photographs of your friends, take a flower with a photo of your friend and tell about it. (After the story, the flower is attached to the board, so you get a bouquet in a vase). Our guest Lakomka will also be interested in listening. (Stories from 3-4 children).
Guys, look, while we were listening to stories about friends, in our group Another flower bloomed. This is a seven-flowered flower. You know he can make wishes come true, today he will make your wishes come true friends, but first let's remember the magic words (To the music "Baby by the River").
Fly, fly petal, through the west to the east, through the north, through the south, come back, making a circle. As soon as you touch the ground, in my opinion, you will. Order to... (Children say their wishes, wishes should be short).
Guys, I think your wishes will come true. Your friendship will be strong, and you will appreciate and take care of your friends. The best friends in your life can become yours loved ones: parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents. They love you, you are dear to them. Treat them with love, kindness, and you will get real friends.
Well, Lakomka, did you remember everything?
Gourmand: Thank you guys for your stories. Now I know how to be friends. You are so great!
Guys, let's sing a song about friendship for Lakomka.
A song about friendship is sung.
Bottom line: - What did we talk about today? Who were you talking about? - What is friendship? - Well done!
Episode two:
An old friend is better than two new ones…
Why are you crying, beauty?
A funny old man on stilts stood under a pine tree and, raising his beard, looked at Vasya.
“I’m not a beauty,” Vasya was offended, “I’m a man.”
Guilty. Men rarely cry, but more and more beautiful women cry. So I thought: why did this beauty climb a pine tree and cry? What's your name?
“No way,” Vasya answered rudely, although he liked the old man more and more.
“No way,” repeated the old man. - That's bad! With a name - Ivan, and without a name - a block of wood.
“I’m not a blockhead, but Vasya,” Vasya was offended again.
Vasya? It’s a difficult name, you can’t pronounce it in the cold!
“What a frost…” - Vasya wanted to say, but didn’t have time: suddenly it was snowy, blowing, everything became white and white.
Hey Vasya! - the old man shouted. - You'll get through in just a shirt! Jump into my bosom, jump off!
How could I have missed... - and again Vasya didn’t finish: the branch on which he was sitting became icy, he slipped off it, flew down and, oddly enough, ended up in the old man’s bosom.
“Okay,” the old man exclaimed, “let’s go with the nuts!”
Outside, Vasya sensed, everything was chalk and windy. And inside your bosom it’s warm and cozy! Indeed, there were a lot of ripe hazelnuts. So he sat like a squirrel and gnawed nuts. And the old man kept running, saying something like:
Eh, I ran along tyuh-tyuh-ty, I found a tyuh-tyuh-ty, if it weren’t for this tyuh-tyuh-ty, I would have eaten me tyuh-tyuh-ty!
“A wonderful old man,” thought Vasya, “he’s running on stilts, and he’s also dragging me. Who is he? What do stilts have to do with it?
And the old man guessed his thoughts:
I am a proverb, and my name is An old friend is better than two new ones. And stilts, despite the fact that I am a necessary and common proverb: you need to keep up everywhere.
Vasya got so warm in his old friend’s bosom that he even stopped gnawing nuts. dozed off. He woke up when something thundered, it lit up and several drops fell on the top of Vasya’s head. Is it really a thunderstorm?
There is a thunderstorm,” the old friend answered his thoughts, “winter has long turned to summer.” Ugh! Come down, Vasya, let me catch my breath...
Vasya jumped down and looked around. Winter is as if it never happened! The sun was shining, fresh grass was green, yellow dandelions were blooming.
“Where am I and what does all this mean?” - Vasya thought, but his old friend again guessed his thoughts:
You, friend Vasya, are in the Land of Proverbs and Sayings. I don’t know by what miracle you got here. And it’s even more unclear how you will get out of here.
And what? - Vasya asked, and his heart skipped a beat.
But the borders in our country are enchanted.
The old friend pushed his hat back onto his forehead and scratched the back of his head.
There is nothing to do except go to the king to bow. If you bow, maybe he will break the borders.
No, I won’t go to bow to any king,” Vasya said decisively, and he himself thought: “I would like to come here.” space rocket, I would get out."
“We don’t have anything like that,” the Friend sighed in response to his thoughts, “just carts and tarantasses.”
We used this type of transport under Tsar Gorokh,” Vasya smiled bitterly.
So we live with him, Vasya,” the old friend sighed again, “our king is King Pea.”
So, should we bow to such a king? - Vasya was completely upset. - There are cosmic speeds all around, but they ride on tarantasses? Rip his head off, don't bow down!
Shhh! - The old friend put his finger to his lips, but it was already too late.
What you said? - an unpleasant, creaky voice was heard. Vasya looked around... What is it? There was an open field all around, and now very close by stood a strange curlicue house, and a strange creature was sticking out of it - "a kind of bug-eyed horned madam" as Vasya called it in his report.
Well, I crawled. I’ll crawl and report to King Pea: so, they say, so, a man named Vaska wants to tear your head off, tra-la-la!
And the strange “madama” crawled... And, what’s even stranger, she dragged her curlicue house on her back!
Julitta crawled with evidence, - whispered the Old Friend, - now keep your eyes open: otherwise it’s not you who is the king, but he will rip your head off.
Vasya was a little scared. Just a little bit: I just trembled slightly and my knees buckled.
Of course, it’s scary,” the old friend understood him without words. - Even though she’s going to be Julitta, someday she will be (that’s her full name and patronymic), but she’s too cunning! Well, don't bother! Our task now is to get her to the palace before her, and then we’ll sort it out. Go!
Vasya didn’t even notice how he found himself again in Friend’s bosom, and Friend jumped on stilts and ran. He ran and said something like:
Shields-bulds, pichiki-chikalds, shivalda-chivaldas, buh-bullds!
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