When I have headaches and colics I envy the scullerymaids.
And you are not a bit grateful to me for all my care of you, my
work, my thought, my fatigue, my sufferings.
THE PRINCESS DASHKOFF. God knows, Little Mother, we all implore
you to give your wonderful brain a rest. That is why you get
headaches. Monsieur Voltaire also has headaches. His brain is
just like yours.
CATHERINE. Dashkoff, what a liar you are! [Dashkoff curtsies with
impressive dignity.] And you think you are flattering me! Let me
tell you I would not give a rouble to have the brains of all the
philosophers in France. What is our business for today?
NARYSHKIN. The new museum, Little Mother. But the model will not
be ready until tonight.
CATHERINE [rising eagerly]. Yes, the museum. An enlightened
capital should have a museum. [She paces the chamber with a deep
sense of the importance of the museum.] It shall be one of the
wonders of the world. I must have specimens: specimens,
specimens, specimens.
NARYSHKIN. You are in high spirits this morning, Little Mother.
CATHERINE [with sudden levity.] I am always in high spirits, even
when people do not bring me my slippers. [She runs to the chair
and sits down, thrusting her feet out.
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