though I were on burning coals.

KHLESTAKOV. What have you got in your hand
there?

AMMOS [getting all mixed up and dropping the bills
on the floor]. Nothing.

KHLESTAKOV. How so, nothing? I see money has
dropped out of it.

AMMOS [shaking all over]. Oh no, oh no, not at all!
[Aside.] Oh, Lord! Now I'm under arrest and
they've brought a wagon to take me.

KHLESTAKOV. Yes, it IS money. [Picking it up.]

AMMOS [aside]. It's all over with me. I'm lost!
I'm lost!

KHLESTAKOV. I tell you what--lend it to me.

AMMOS [eagerly]. Why, of course, of course--with
the greatest pleasure. [Aside.] Bolder! Bolder!
Holy Virgin, stand by me!

KHLESTAKOV. I've run out of cash on the road, what
with one thing and another, you know. I'll let you
have it back as soon as I get to the village.