The Waiting and the Letter

The Dreamer assists Nastenka in composing and delivering a letter to the lodger, and they wait for a response.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Composing the Letter

Composing the Letter The Dreamer's Advice Nastenka is hesitant to write, but the Dreamer encourages her, arguing that she has the right because of the lodger's promise. He helps her draft a letter that is dignified and heartfelt. Nastenka's Secret Letter It turns out Nastenka has already written a letter, which she had hidden. She gives it to the Dreamer, who promises to deliver it to her friends, who will pass it to the lodger. A Glimmer of Hope Nastenka's spirits lift slightly. They agree to meet the next night at the same place to hear the answer.

Delivering the Letter

Delivering the Letter The Dreamer's Errand The Dreamer carries out his mission, delivering the letter to Nastenka's friends. He feels a sense of purpose and connection to her happiness. A Day of Anxiety He spends the rest of the day in a state of nervous excitement, unable to work or rest. He is more invested in her story than he wants to admit. Return to the Bench By evening, he returns to the canal bench, hoping that the lodger has responded. But there is no answer yet.

The Third Night: No Answer

The Third Night: No Answer Rain and Disappointment It is a rainy night, and Nastenka arrives looking anxious. The Dreamer has no news. The lodger has not appeared or sent a letter. Nastenka's Despair Nastenka struggles to hide her tears. She begins to doubt the lodger's love. The Dreamer comforts her, but his own heart is aching. A Promise to Continue They agree to wait one more night. Nastenka leaves, and the Dreamer walks home in the rain, feeling the weight of her sorrow.

second night, after Nastenka's story

the next day (between second and third night)

third night, at the canal bench