Governor: Luka (aside): But the villain cheated me yesterday out of a hundred roubles! Luka CONTENTS Introduced to the governor's wife and daughter, Khlestakov addresses them in the manner of a gallant from the metropolis, and chatters boastfully of his influence, his position, and his connections. His house is the first in St. Petersburg. Meantime, the various functionaries meet in the house of the governor to concert measures for propitiating this great courtier. They resolve to present him with a substantial token of regard. With great trepidation they wait on him. Judge (entering very nervously): I have the honour to present myself. I have been judge here since 1816, and have been decorated with the Vladimir of the Fourth Class. Judge Khelstakov: What have you there in your hand? Khelstakov: Judge (in bewilderment drops banknotes on the floor): Nothing. Judge [Pg 35] [Pg 35] Khelstakov: How nothing? I see some money has been dropped. Khelstakov: Judge (trembling and aside): O heaven, I am already before the tribunal, and they have brought the cart to take me into exile. Judge CONTENTS Khelstakov picks up the notes, and asks that the money may be lent him, as he has spent all his cash on the journey. He promises to return it as soon as he reaches home, but the judge protests that the honour of lending it is enough, and he begs that there shall be no injunction against him.
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