ASTROFF. A woman can only become a man's friend after having
first been his acquaintance and then his beloved--then she
becomes his friend.

VOITSKI. What vulgar philosophy!

ASTROFF. What do you mean? Yes, I must confess I am getting
vulgar, but then, you see, I am drunk. I usually only drink like
this once a month. At such times my audacity and temerity know no
bounds. I feel capable of anything. I attempt the most difficult
operations and do them magnificently. The most brilliant plans
for the future take shape in my head. I am no longer a poor fool
of a doctor, but mankind's greatest benefactor. I evolve my own
system of philosophy and all of you seem to crawl at my feet like
so many insects or microbes. [To TELEGIN] Play, Waffles!

TELEGIN. My dear boy, I would with all my heart, but do listen to
reason; everybody in the house is asleep.

ASTROFF. Play!

TELEGIN plays softly.

ASTROFF. I want a drink. Come, we still have some brandy left.
And then, as soon as it is day, you will come home with me. [He
sees SONIA, who comes in at that moment.]

ASTROFF. I beg your pardon, I have no collar on.

[He goes out quickly, followed by TELEGIN.