Mr. James Joyce and the modern stage: A play and some considerations

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1916. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... WAR By Michael Abtzybashev ACT I It is a bright, sunny day in spring. The trees are in blossom in front of an old nobleman's house with columns and a terrace, and broad steps leading down to the garden. On the terrace is a large rush-bottom armchair, and on one side under a large tree a garden bench. In front of the house lies a circular plot of ground with early spring flowers. Beyond the trees is seen a railing and a wicket gate opening into a city street. Olga Petbovna, the mother, is at world in the -flower patch, while Piotb Ivanovich, her husband, stands looking on, smoking. He is in a light uniform and is hatless. Olga. You had better put your cap on, Piotr. You'll catch cold. Piotb. Oh, no; I'm warm. Olga. Yes, warm. You think so. It's just the kind of weather one is apt to catch a cold in. I'll tell Katya to bring you your cap. Piotb. Don't; I don't want it. Olga. [Not heeding him, she calls.] Katya, Katya. Katya. [Coming out on the terrace.] What is it? Olga. Fetch your master's cap, and tell Aksinya to start a fire in the fireplace. Katya. Yes, ma'am. [She goes out.] Piotb. [Looking at his watch.] It's time for coffee. Will you finish soon? Olga. What time is it? Piotb. Half past twelve--time long ago. Olga. I'll be through in a moment. I must tell Sidorenko to water the flowers every evening. He never does a stroke of work, anyway--just runs after Katya the whole day. Katya. [As she glides quickly down the steps.] Here's your cap, Master. Olga. Is Vladimir Aleksandrovich up yet? Katya. Yes, he is; he's washing. Shall I get the coffee ready? Olga. Yes, yes. Take a clean tablecloth from the sideboard. And be careful not to soil it at once the way you always do. I can never keep a large enough supply of tablecloths. Katya. All right, ma'am; I'l...