SONIA. Uncle Vanya, you and the doctor have been drinking! The
good fellows have been getting together! It is all very well for
him, he has always done it, but why do you follow his example? It
looks dreadfully at your age.

VOITSKI. Age has nothing to do with it. When real life is
wanting one must create an illusion. It is better than nothing.

SONIA. Our hay is all cut and rotting in these daily rains, and
here you are busy creating illusions! You have given up the farm
altogether. I have done all the work alone until I am at the end
of my strength--[Frightened] Uncle! Your eyes are full of tears!

VOITSKI. Tears? Nonsense, there are no tears in my eyes. You
looked at me then just as your dead mother used to, my
darling--[He eagerly kisses her face and hands] My sister, my
dearest sister, where are you now? Ah, if you only knew, if you
only knew!

SONIA. If she only knew what, Uncle?

VOITSKI. My heart is bursting. It is awful. No matter, though. I
must go. [He goes out.]

SONIA. [Knocks at the door] Dr. Astroff! Are you awake? Please
come here for a minute.

ASTROFF. [Behind the door] In a moment.