The examination is even more brilliant than the lesson.

Mitrofan says that door, that is to say, the door to that room, is an adjective, because it is added, or affixed, to its place; but the door of the store-house is a noun, because it has been standing off its hinges for six weeks.

Further examination reveals the fact, that Vralman's instruction in history has impressed his pupil with the idea that the histories (stories) told by Khavronya, the herd-girl, constitute that science.

When asked about geography, the Hobbledehoy declares that he does not know what is meant, and his mother prompts him with "'Eography," after asking Pravdin what he said.

On inquiring further as to its meaning and its use, and on being informed that it is a description of the earth, and its first use is to aid people in finding their way about, she makes the famous speech, frequently quoted, "Akh, good gracious! What are the cabmen for, then?
That's their business.