The Confession of Love

The Dreamer confesses his love for Nastenka on the fourth night, and she initially reciprocates before the lodger's return.

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The Fourth Night Arrives

The Fourth Night Arrives Nastenka's Desperation Nastenka is already at the bench when the Dreamer arrives. She is pale and trembling. She asks if there is a letter; there is none. She breaks down, saying the lodger has abandoned her. The Dreamer's Torment Seeing her pain, the Dreamer can no longer contain his feelings. He tells her that he loves her, that he has loved her from the first moment. A Surprise Response Nastenka is stunned but not angry. She admits she had suspected his feelings. She says she is grateful for his love, and that she might come to love him in return.

Nastenka's Acceptance

Nastenka's Acceptance A Change of Heart Nastenka, hurt by the lodger's silence, tells the Dreamer that she will try to love him. She says he is better than the lodger, and that she values his devotion. Plans for the Future They begin to make plans: the Dreamer will move into her grandmother's house, they will take care of the old woman, and they will live together. The Dreamer is overjoyed. A Moment of Pure Happiness They walk through the city, laughing and dreaming. The Dreamer feels that his life has finally begun. He holds her hand, and the night seems eternal.

The Lodger's Return

The Lodger's Return A Sudden Appearance As they are walking, a young man passes by. Nastenka stops, her face changes. She recognizes him: it is the lodger. The Reunion She rushes to him, embraces him, and then turns back to the Dreamer, giving him a grateful kiss on the cheek. She then leaves with the lodger, without a word. The Dreamer Left Alone The Dreamer stands frozen, watching them disappear into the night. His moment of happiness is shattered.

fourth night, at the canal bench

fourth night, after the confession

fourth night, later that evening