Demons: Part 3, Chapter 5, Section 3 Summary & Analysis

Shatov goes to Aleksey’s and tells him that his wife Marie is in labor. He asks Aleksey if he knows anyone who could assist with the birth. Aleksey says he’s not sure who could help. Shatov decides to look for Virginsky’s wife, Arina, who is a midwife. Shatov asks Aleksey to intermittently check on Marie while he is gone. Shatov then leaves. When he knocks on Arina’s door, Virginsky responds first and tells Shatov to leave. Eventually, Arina comes to the door and says she will help, especially because she was fond of Marie when she first met her.

Shatov then runs to Lyamshin’s house. Lyamshin is alarmed when Shatov knocks on his door because he suspects that Shatov will inform on the Society, and he (Lyamshin) is involved in the plot to kill Shatov. Shatov tells Lyamshin that his wife is in labor, and he wants to sell his revolver back to Lyamshin for 15 roubles. Lyamshin argues about the price. He ultimately gives Shatov seven roubles and tells Shatov to come back the next day for the remaining eight roubles.