[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: 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.)