LUKÉRYA. You needn't go far. Stroll out of the rear gate to the river-bank, sit down on the bench and enjoy the beauty of nature. It's a quiet, secluded place; few people ever go there. It's a most delightful walk for sentimental young people. Sister and I will go that way, and there you may be able to see her. Good day! [_She goes out._ BABÁYEV. What a surprise! Could I have expected such good fortune? Little Tánya, little Tánya! I shall see her again! I'll go mad with joy. She was so charming, so delicate. Some people said that she didn't have much sense, but is that a fault in a woman? And then her beauty, her beauty! It's likely that instead of four days I'll stay four weeks. [_Goes out._ TABLEAU II _The bank of a river; at one side a fence and gate, at the other a corner of a barn; beyond the river stretches the countryside; sunset._ SCENE I _Enter_ ARKHÍP _and_ AFÓNYA AFÓNYA. Grandfather, let's rest here awhile. I feel ill to-day. Sit down here, on the bench. ARKHÍP. Very well, Afónya, we'll sit down here. You and I are unfortunate: age is overcoming me and sickness you. AFÓNYA. I'm not ailing. I was born so. Grandfather, I shan't live long in this bright world. ARKHÍP. Don't listen to old wives' tales. No one knows what fate awaits him. AFÓNYA. What do I care for old wives! I know that I shall not live long. My appetite is failing. Others have such hearty appetites after working. They eat a whole lot and want more. There's brother Lev, when he's tired--just keep giving him food. But I don't care if I never eat at all. My soul won't take anything. I just swallow a crust--and am satisfied. ARKHÍP. That helps growth. AFÓNYA. No, it doesn't. Why should I grow any more, anyhow! As it is, I am tall for my age. But it's a sign that I shall not live. Just listen, grandfather; a man who is alive thinks of living things, but I don't have any interest in anything. Some people like nice clothes, but for me it's all the same--whatever rag is near at hand--just so I'm warm. For instance, all the boys have some hobby; some like fishing, others games, some sing songs; but nothing attracts me. While others are happy I feel depressed. Misery seems to grip my heart.