Part One: Chapter 3 (pages 39-60) Summary

Selifan picks his master up in his chaise and begins to drive him to Sobakevitch's. Tchitchikov realizes that the weather is getting worse. He also sees that Selifan's driving is not very good. He seems to be weaving and taking wrong turns. Tchitchikov becomes very angry with Selifan and curses him. Because of the weather and encroaching darkness, they cannot seem to find Sobakevitch's house. As the storm continues, the two travelers find a house in the distance. They make their way to the entrance and knock on the door.

An old woman answers the door of a large estate. Selifan begs the woman to let them sleep there for the night. The old woman looks very frightened. She is relieved when Tchitchikov takes control of the situation. She recognizes that he is a nobleman...