the ground! What can I give you? I've only got this coat, but I
can't give you that. I've nothing on underneath. ... Would you like
my cap? [Takes it off and gives it to TIHON]

TIHON. [Looks it over] Hm. ... There are all sorts of caps. ... It
might be a sieve from the holes in it. ...

FEDYA. [Laughs] A gentleman's cap! You've got to take it off in
front of the mam'selles. How do you do, good-bye! How are you?

TIHON. [Returns the cap to BORTSOV] I wouldn't give anything for
it. It's muck.

BORTSOV. If you don't like it, then let me owe you for the drink!
I'll bring in your five copecks on my way back from town. You can
take it and choke yourself with it then! Choke yourself! I hope it
sticks in your throat! [Coughs] I hate you!

TIHON. [Banging the bar-counter with his fist] Why do you keep on
like that? What a man! What are you here for, you swindler?

BORTSOV. I want a drink! It's not I, it's my disease! Understand
that!

TIHON. Don't you make me lose my temper, or you'll soon find
yourself outside!

BORTSOV. What am I to do? [Retires from the bar-counter] What am I
to do? [Is thoughtful.]