Chapter 18

KATERINA and VARVARA.

VARVARA (_putting a kerchief on her head before the looking-glass_). I am just going out for a walk now; Glasha's putting our beds in the summer house now, mamma's consented to let us sleep there. Mamma always keeps the little gate in the garden behind the raspberries locked up and hides the key. I've taken it and put another one in its place for her, so she won't notice it. Here, see, maybe, it will be wanted (_gives the key_). If I see him, I shall tell him to come to the little gate.

KATERINA (_with horror, pushing away the key_). What for! what for! No! no!

VARVARA. If you don't want it, I do; take it, it won't bite you!

KATERINA. But what are you plotting, wicked girl? It's impossible! Do you know what you're doing? It's dreadful, dreadful!

VARVARA. Well, well--Least said is soonest mended; and I've no time to stay either. It's time for my walk.

[_Goes._