that music says. And where does it all come from, what does it all
mean?

[Another pause.

To think that men can touch eternity like that, and then--nothing--
nothing at all.

MUSICIAN. Yes, it's very original.

[Taking notes.

FEDYA. Original be damned. It's real.

MUSICIAN. It's all very simple, except the rhythm. That's very
strange.

FEDYA. Oh, Masha, Masha! You turn my soul inside out.

[Gypsies hum a song softly.

MASHA (sitting on couch L. with FEDYA). Do I? But what was it I asked
you for?

FEDYA. What? Oh, money. Voila, mademoiselle.

[He takes money front his trousers pocket. MASHA laughs, takes
the money, counts it swiftly, and hides it in her dress.

FEDYA. Look at this strange creature. When she sings she rushes me