Matvey Frolov

Peace reigned in the Menshikov estate. The father smoked his pipe behind a newspaper, the mother drank tea in the garden, the eldest daughter, Lyubochka, flirted with a suitor on the porch, young Pavel played war, and the middle sister gazed thoughtfully at the sky. Suddenly, Emelyan, a serf, rushed in with an envelope: "Count Frolov invites you for the evening!" The father read the letter, and the family gathered in the hall. The mother gave a short nod—and the matter was decided. Lyubochka was eager for the ball; the middle daughter, though timid, also loved social soirées. Pavel understood he was too young, but he did not lose hope.

On the appointed day, the Menshikovs arrived at the Frolovs'. Light and music poured from the windows, and nobles crowded the entrance. Lyubochka beamed with smiles, while her sister hid behind their mother's back. Count Frolov greeted the guests, exchanged kisses with the father, and praised the daughters: "What beauties you have grown into!" Then his sons approached—Matvey and Pavel, both dark-haired and stately. The parents became engrossed in politics, leaving the youth to their own devices. Lyubochka immediately excused herself and rushed off to find Count Grigoryev, followed by the younger Frolov. A silence hung between Matvey and the middle Menshikova. She was shy, and he studied her intently—he found the girl very appealing.