SIDE 1

(The exterior of TEVYE'S house. TEVYE is sitting on a bench)

Dear Lord, that was quite a dowry You gave my daughter Tzeitel at her wedding. Was that really necessary? Anyway, Tzeitel and Motel are married now. Almost two months. They work very hard, they are as poor as squirrels in winter. But they are both so happy, they don't know how miserable they are. They have big plans. Motel keeps talking about a sewing machine. I know You're very busy - but couldn't You take a second and get it for him. Oh, and while You're in the neighborhood, my horse's left leg - Am I bothering You too much? I'm sorry. As the Good Book says - Why should I tell You what the Good Book says?

SIDE 2

Good day. What were you and he talking about?
 

Nothing, but, Papa, Fydeka and I have known each other for a long time now and -
 

Chava, you must not forget who you are and who that man is.
 

He has a name, Papa.
 

Of course. All creatures on earth have a name.
 

Fyedka is not a creature, Papa. Fyedka is a man.
 

Who says that he isn't? It's just that he's a different kind of a man. As the Good Book says, "Each shall seek his own kind." Which means: a bird may love a fish, but where would they build a home together?

(Starts toward the tailor shop, but CHAVA grabs his arm)
 

The world is changing, Papa.
 

No. Some things will never change.
 

We don't feel that way.
 

We?
 

Fyedka and I. We want to be married.
 

Are you out of your mind?
 

But, Papa -
 

No! Never talk about this again. Never see him again! Never! Do you understand me?
 

Yes, Papa. I understand you.