Summary

In Chapter 11, Orlov’s father comes to visit. When Stepan tells him Orlov is not home, Orlov’s father tells him he will leave a note. Orlov’s father heads to the study. Stepan reflects that he should kill this man, his enemy, but does not want to. Orlov’s father asks Stepan when he started working for his son. Stepan replies that it was three months ago. Orlov’s father bids him farewell, calling him “brother” (291). Stepan reflects that he no longer knows himself. He decides that he must leave.

Gruzin comes to pick up some papers for Orlov. He tells Stepan to leave them in the front hall while he goes to speak with Zinaida. Gruzin lies to her about Orlov being gone. Stepan notices that he looks guilty. They sit in silence after dinner. After Gruzin plays a few songs...