Una historia desagradable

In a historical context following the emancipatory reforms of 1861 in Russia, and after drinking too much with two fellow civil servants, the protagonist, Ivan Ilyich Pralinsky, expresses his desire to adopt a philosophy based on kindness and humanitarianism toward people of lower social standing. Upon leaving the initial meeting, Ivan notices that his coachman has gone elsewhere, thinking the meeting would be delayed, so he decides to walk and happens upon a house where the wedding celebration of one of his subordinates is taking place. He resolves to put his philosophy into practice and enters the party.