Part II, Chapter 7, At Virginsky's and Chapter 8, Ivan the Crown-Prince Summary

Fifteen people have gathered at Mr. Virginsky's house, ostensibly to celebrate his birthday. The real purpose is to engage in a radical political meeting. Some of those in attendance are members of Peter Verkhovensky's secret revolutionary cell or "group of five." Liputin, Virginsky, Shigalyov, Lyamshin, and Tolkachencko. None of those in attendance, save Peter, know the purpose of the meeting, though everyone is anxious and excited. A young man and woman student begin discussing some of the latest nihilist ideas in an attempt to impress Stavrogin and Peter, though they only annoy everyone at the party.

After they get the young students to stop their silly quibbling, Shigalyov starts the meeting by giving an overview of his new plan of social organization. His plan is...