Of course one must not forget God. AKÍM. It turns out worse! But when it's the right way--God's way--it what d'you call it, it gives one joy; seems pleasant, I mean. So I reckon, you see, get him, the lad, I mean, get him to marry her, to keep him from sin, I mean, and let him what d'you call it at home, as it's lawful, I mean, while I go and get the job in town. The work is of the right sort--it's payin', I mean. And in God's sight it's what d'you call it--it's best, I mean. Ain't she an orphan? Here, for example, a year ago some fellows went and took timber from the steward,--thought they'd do the steward, you know. Yes, they did the steward, but they couldn't what d'you call it--do God, I mean. Well, and so... Enter Nikíta and Nan. NIKÍTA. You called me? (Sits down and takes out his tobacco-pouch). PETER (in a low, reproachful voice) What are you thinking about--have you no manners? Your father is going to speak to you, and you sit down and fool about with tobacco. Come, get up! Nikíta rises, leans carelessly with his elbow on the table, and smiles. AKÍM. It seems there's a complaint, you know, about you, Nikíta--a complaint, I mean, a complaint. NIKÍTA. Who's been complaining? AKÍM. Complaining? It's a maid, an orphan maid, complaining, I mean. It's her, you know--a complaint against you, from Marína, I mean. NIKÍTA (laughs) Well, that's a good one. What's the complaint? And who's told you--she herself? AKÍM. It's I am asking you, and you must now, what d'you call it, give me an answer. Have you got mixed up with the lass, I mean--mixed up, you know? NIKÍTA. I don't know what you mean. What's up? AKÍM. Foolin', I mean, what d'you call it? foolin'. Have you been foolin' with her, I mean? NIKÍTA. Never mind what's been! Of course one does have some fun with a cook now and then to while away the time. One plays the concertina and gets her to dance. What of that?

Peter Monologue from The Power of Darkness

Rehearse Peter's monologue