SEREBRAKOFF. What time is it?

HELENA. One o'clock.

SEREBRAKOFF. It is stifling in here. Sonia, hand me that bottle
on the table.

SONIA. Here it is. [She hands him a bottle of medicine.]

SEREBRAKOFF. [Crossly] No, not that one! Can't you understand me?
Can't I ask you to do a thing?

SONIA. Please don't be captious with me. Some people may like it,
but you must spare me, if you please, because I don't. Besides, I
haven't the time; we are cutting the hay to-morrow and I must get
up early.

VOITSKI comes in dressed in a long gown and carrying a candle.

VOITSKI. A thunderstorm is coming up. [The lightning flashes]
There it is! Go to bed, Helena and Sonia. I have come to take
your place.

SEREBRAKOFF. [Frightened] No, n o, no! Don't leave me alone with
him! Oh, don't. He will begin to lecture me.

VOITSKI. But you must give them a little rest. They have not
slept for two nights.

SEREBRAKOFF. Then let them go to bed, but you go away too! Thank