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The Banker
The host of the party who bets the lawyer two million rubles to remain in captivity for fifteen years. Although formerly a rich man, the banker loses his fortune over the ensuing fifteen years to the point where he contemplates murdering the lawyer to avoid the payout. Upon reading the lawyer’s determination to forfeit the bet, he is relieved.
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The Lawyer
A lawyer who believes that life is prison is more merciful than the death penalty. To prove his point, he agrees to remain in isolation for fifteen years. Over the fifteen years, he goes through phases to cope with his isolation, including playing music, drinking, and studying languages, theology, and philosophy. He eventually concludes that material life is worthless and throws the bet, leaving just before his release.
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The Watchman
A servant of the banker who reports the lawyer’s departure.
