Aunt: Oh no, were just leaving. I was just saying good-bye when you came in. (She gives the boys a dark look.) Qadir: I had only come on behalf of Apa Jan's doctor. Now please excuse me. Adab Arz, Apa Jan; Aziz: Adab Arz: Aunt: (Under her breath while hugging Fatima.) Daughter, think over carefully whatever you decide to do before you do it. (Everyone except Atiqullah walks outside. Fat-Una goes as far as the door, where once again they all exchange goodbyes. Fatima walks back in a different direction without looking at Atiqullah.) Atiqullah: Just today I told you not to appear before those two brothers. Why did you disobey my order? (Fatima stops and stares at him angrily. Without answering him, she again starts to leave.) Atiqullah: What doctor was this Qadir talking about? I didn't know that you were sick. How did you dare consult a doctor without my permission? Fatima: (Standing firmly.) What illness do I have? The one that you gave met It's you who killed my innocent babies. Muderer: I'll consult anyone I want to. Now no one can stop me. I have followed orders long enough.... Atiqullah: What foul language is this? Don't get a swelled head because of your two maternal cousins; I'll see how they enter my house after today; Fatima: Your house! Did your ancestors ever have a house? You beggar! So long as I'm alive you cannot keep them away from me. You can go away; Not they: You're some big man.... Atiqullah: (Enraged.) By God I'll see to it that you taste the consequences of your foul language: You deserve a really severe punishment. Wretched woman, you haven't learned your lesson yet: I'll give you a beating you'll never forget..., (Jumps up and, raising his right hand ready to hit her, he advances on Fatima.) Fatima: (Restraining her anger and gnashing her teeth.) Careful: I'm telling you to sit down, if you want to preserve your honor. If you dare to raise your hand again, I won't be responsible for what happens, (she also takes a step or two forward. Atiqullah stands still. Slowly he lowers his hand. He then turns around and goes and sits down on the takht.) Fatima: (After Atiqullah is seated.) Some big man you are: Going off to marry a second time: (Goes off the stage.) (Curtain.) -88-