Balatka groaned, but made no immediate answer.
"It is terrible, horrible, abominable, and damnable," said Madame Zamenoy, bringing out one epithet after the other with renewed energy.
Balatka groaned again.

What could he say in reply to such an address?
"Aunt Sophie," said Nina, "do not speak to father like that.

He is ill." "Child," said Madame Zamenoy, "I shall speak as I please.

I shall speak as my duty bids me speak.

Josef, this that I hear is very terrible.