[IV-4]

[Chekhov]

MASHA: Now you've made him angry. Why can't you leave him alone?

POLINA: I feel so sorry for you, Mashenka.

MASHA: A lot of good it does!

POLINA: My heart just aches and aches for you. I understand everything you're going through.

MASHA: This is all so stupid. Unrequited love! It only happens in novels. I refuse to sit around brooding, waiting for something to happen. I was foolish enough to fall in love, so I can just fall out of love as well. My husband's been promised a transfer to another school district, and when he gets it, I'll forget all about love. I'll tear love from my heart by the roots!

(A melancholy waltz is heard, coming from another room.)

POLINA: That must be Kostya playing. He's probably depressed.

(Masha waltzes a few turns, silently.)

MASHA: Mother, it's important for me to be where I can't see him. If only Semyou would get his transfer - I'd forget about Kostya in a month, I know I would. This is all so stupid.

(The door opens, and Dorn and Medvedenko wheel in Sorin.)

[continue]