[K-I-3]

[Deemer]

ILYA: They think I'm stupid.

TRIGORIN: What do you mean?

ILYA: It doesn't matter.

(He fetches a bottle from the cupboard.)

ILYA: Here, try this.

(He'll pour two small glasses.)

ILYA: This is Moscow vodka. I've been saving it.

TRIGORIN: This is such a special occasion?

ILYA: I need such special fortification. Irina thinks her son is a writer. I'm prepared dto discover he isn't.

TRIGORIN: (He drinks.) Quite good!

ILYA: Then we'll have more. Irina is playing the proud mother.

(He fills their glasses.)

TRIGORIN: Irina is only capable of playing herself.

ILYA: But she plays so many roles on stage.

TRIGORIN: But here, in her more mundane life, she plays herself. I don't think she is trying to help her son's writing career. If he has one.

ILYA: Then I'm surprised.

TRIGORIN: Irina is full of surprises.

ILYA: Keeps you on your toes, does she?

TRIGORIN: More than I prefer.

ILYA: I imagine a writer of your reputation could have any woman he wants.

(A pause.)

ILYA: At least it seems to me.

TRIGORIN: I'm sorry. Was that a question?

ILYA: It's your own business, of course.

TRIGORIN: Yes, it is.

(Sorin enters.)

SORIN: Time for the play. Ilya, you wanted me to remind you to ask Irina about some actor. I forget his name.

ILYA: Ah, yes! I shall have to do that.

SORIN: Has Masha asked you about typing up the dog?

ILYA: No.

SORIN: The mutt howled all night again. Kept everybody awake.

ILYA: I must've slept right through it. Did you hear anything?

TRIGORIN: I did hear a dog bark.

SORIN: Irina was quite upset by it.

ILYA: She must have above-average hearing. Didn't bother any of us.

SORIN: Do take care of it.

ILYA: The alternative may be worse. You know what a mess he can get in to, roaming around at night.

SORIN: At least til my sister leaves, try to remember to let him roam at night.

ILYA: Well, don't say I didn't warn you.

SORIN: I'll take full responsibility for what happens.

ILYA: You're my witness.

TRIGORIN: This is what you want?

SORIN: This is what I want.

(They drink and all leave.)

[follow them]