The Lodger's Return and Fulfillment of Promise

The lodger's journey from a young man who makes a promise to a man who returns to claim his love, though at the cost of another's happiness.

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The Promise Made

The Promise Made A Tender Moment When Nastenka comes to him with her bundle, the lodger is moved. He holds her hand and promises to marry her if he is able after a year. A Conditional Oath He is cautious, not wanting to bind her. He tells her she is free to choose another if he does not return. But he swears she is the only one for him. Departure with Hope He leaves for Moscow, carrying her love with him. He intends to work hard and establish himself so he can return for her.

The Return to Petersburg

The Return to Petersburg A Successful Year The lodger has completed his business in Moscow and returned to Petersburg. He is now in a position to marry. Delay in Contact For reasons unknown, he does not immediately seek out Nastenka. Perhaps he is testing her, or perhaps he is busy settling in. The Fateful Meeting On the fourth night, he happens to walk along the canal and sees Nastenka with the Dreamer. He recognizes her and calls out.

The Reunion

The Reunion A Joyful Embrace When Nastenka sees him, she rushes into his arms. He holds her, and they are reunited. The Dreamer is forgotten. The Fulfillment of the Promise He takes her hand and leads her away. They will marry the next week, as Nastenka's letter later reveals. He has kept his word. An Unaware Victim He may never know the depth of the Dreamer's feelings. His return, while happy for Nastenka, leaves the Dreamer devastated.

a year ago, before leaving for Moscow

three days before the fourth night

fourth night, on the canal embankment