The Poor Bride

MARYA ANDREYEVNA (to Milashin)
What is wrong with you: you seem to be in low spirits today.

MILASHIN
Indeed, I have a bit of a headache.

MERICH
A headache! That is not good. You should seek treatment. Goodbye, Marya Andreyevna; offer my respects to your mother.

MARYA ANDREYEVNA
When will you be coming to see us?

MERICH
Tomorrow, if possible.

MARYA ANDREYEVNA
Very possible: so, tomorrow. I will be waiting.

MERICH
Without fail. (Exits. Marya Andreyevna walks to the door).

MARYA ANDREYEVNA
Mind now, do not deceive me.

MERICH (off-stage)
On my word of honor.

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SCENE XIII

MILASHIN
What was he talking to you about in the garden, Marya Andreyevna?

MARYA ANDREYEVNA
And what business is that of yours? You are very curious.

MILASHIN
Excuse me, Marya Andreyevna, I thought that you and Merich had no special secrets. I did not know... Perhaps it is something that cannot be said.

MARYA ANDREYEVNA
Perhaps.

MILASHIN (after a short silence)
Tell me, Marya Andreyevna, why do you not love me?