Summary

In Chapter 3, the britzka stops in front of a big, one-story house featuring a “pathetic little cherry orchard” (23). The landlord, Moisei Moiseich, is overjoyed to see them. He summons his brother Solomon to help bring their things in. The inside of the house is gloomy and ugly. Kuzmichov asks Moisei whether the merchant Varlamov passed this way or not. Moisei says that only Varlamov’s agent, Griogory Egorych, passed by on his way to the Molokan’s farmstead. Moisei begs them to stay for tea. Kuzmichov wishes to go straight to the Molokan’s but consents to stay at Father Khristofor’s request. Solomon serves them. Egorushka is struck by the look of contempt and mockery on Solomon’s face.

Kuzmichov explains to Moisei that Egorushka is his sister’s son and that they are taking him to school. Moisei rejoices at this news...