English, you know. One dress coat costs him a hundred and fifty rubles and he sells it to the old clo'es man for twenty. No use saying nothing about his pants. They go for a song. And why? Because he doesn't tend to his business. Instead of sticking to his job, he gads about on the Prospect and plays cards. Ah, if the old gentleman only knew it! He wouldn't care that you are an official. He'd lift up your little shirtie and would lay it on so that you'd go about rubbing yourself for a week. If you have a job, stick to it. Here's the innkeeper says he won't let you have anything to eat unless you pay your back bills. Well, and suppose we don't pay. (Sighing.) Oh, good God! If only I could get cabbage soup. I think I could eat up the whole world now. There's a knock at the door. I suppose it's him. (Rises from the bed hastily.)

Scene II

Osip and Khlestakov.

KHLESTAKOV. Here! (Hands him his cap and cane.) What, been warming the bed again!

OSIP. Why should I have been warming the bed? Have I never seen a bed before?

KHLESTAKOV. You're lying. The bed's all tumbled up.

OSIP. What do I want a bed for? Don't I know what a bed is like? I have legs and can use them to stand on. I don't need your bed.

KHLESTAKOV (walking up and down the room). Go see if there isn't some tobacco in the pouch.

OSIP. What tobacco? You emptied it out four days ago.

KHLESTAKOV (pacing the room and twisting his lips. Finally he says in a loud resolute voice). Listen—a—Osip.

OSIP. Yes, sir?

KHLESTAKOV (In a voice just as loud, but not quite so resolute). Go down there.

OSIP. Where?

KHLESTAKOV (in a voice not at all resolute, nor loud, but almost in entreaty). Down to the restaurant—tell them—to send up dinner.

OSIP.