Eric Bentley

The Harmfulness of Tobacco

An adaptation of a Chekhov monologue about a hen-pecked schoolmaster forced by his domineering wife to lecture at a Women's Institute meeting on the evils of smoking, but instead finds himself looking back on his failed life.

Marriage

Councillor Podkolyossin has called on the services of Madame Fyokla, the matchmaker - decision he is already beginning to regret. Against his better judgment he finds himself competing for the hand of Miss Agafya.