The Secret City · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Secret City by Hugh Walpole.
Chapter 1
Dedication
The author dedicates the book to Major James Annand of the 15th Battalion 48th Highlanders, C.E.F., in gratitude for his friendship.
Chapter 2
Epigraph
The epigraph sets a dawn scene with fading stars and a cock crowing, evoking the end of a feast and the arrival of morning, as the world stirs to life.
Chapter 3
The Secret City
The chapter introduces the setting of Petrograd during a time of political and social upheaval, focusing on the experiences of foreign observers and Russian citizens as they navigate the complexities of life in a city on the brink of revolution.
Chapter 4
Part I: Vera and Nina
The chapter introduces Vera and Nina, two sisters whose contrasting personalities and circumstances set the stage for their intertwined fates. Vera is portrayed as thoughtful and observant, while Nina is youthful and impulsive, hinting at the tensions and sacrifices that will define their relationships.
Chapter 5
I
The narrator collapses in the streets of Petrograd after the revolutionary events, overwhelmed by weakness and pain. He is rescued by an unknown person, possibly a black-bearded peasant, and manages to return home.
Chapter 6
II
Durward, recovering from illness, is cared for by the Rat and learns that his old landlady has left. He ventures outside on April 14, observing the thaw and the subtle signs of revolution, and feels abandoned by his friends.
Chapter 7
III
Durward encounters Nina by the river, who is visibly distressed and crying. She reveals that Uncle Alexei Semyonov has moved into the Markovitch flat, displacing Nicholas's inventions, and that Nicholas has become moody and secretive since the Revolution. Nina expresses distrust and a sense of impending trouble.
Chapter 8
IV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, is deeply disturbed by Nina's decision to leave her family and live with Boris Grogoff. He visits Grogoff's flat to persuade Nina to return, but finds Grogoff arrogant and dismissive. Nina refuses to come back, asserting her independence. The chapter also describes the massive funeral procession for the victims of the Revolution, highlighting the apathy and ignorance of the peasant masses. The narrator reflects on the ominous atmosphere of the Markovitch flat and his growing sense of helplessness.
Chapter 9
V
Durward, recovering from illness, receives a visit from Henry Bohun who discusses the strange changes in Markovitch after the Revolution, Semyonov's unsettling move into their flat, and Nina's sudden elopement with Grogoff. Vera confronts Durward about Nina's message hinting at a secret from Revolution week, while Bohun reflects on Markovitch's idealism and the complexities of Russian character.
Chapter 10
VI
Vera struggles with the aftermath of her surrender to Lawrence, torn between her love for him and her duties to Nina and Nicholas. She delays telling Nicholas about Lawrence, while Nina's flight with Grogoff devastates her. Meanwhile, the narrator reflects on the growing gulf between Russia and the Western world during the weeks before Easter, as revolutionary fervor gives way to uncertainty. Vera's deep-seated hatred for her uncle Semyonov is explored, rooted in childhood trauma and his manipulative influence over Nicholas.
Chapter 11
VII
On Easter Eve, Ivan Andreievitch is visited by Nicholas Markovitch, who is visibly miserable and slightly drunk. They walk together to the church, and Markovitch speaks at length about his fears, his disillusionment, and the influence of Alexei Petrovitch Semyonov, who has come to stay with his family. Markovitch confesses his terror of himself, of the city, and of Semyonov, and expresses his desperate hope that Russia will rise to greatness, while revealing that he has abandoned his inventions under Semyonov's influence.
Chapter 12
VIII
During an Easter service, the characters experience a moment of peace and mystery amidst the turmoil of Petrograd. Afterwards, at the Markovitch flat, tensions erupt when Semyonov taunts Nicholas about the Revolution, leading to a painful confession from Nicholas about witnessing Vera's love for another man. Vera openly acknowledges her love, and Nicholas retreats in distress.
Chapter 13
IX
On Easter Monday, Durward reluctantly attends a party at the merchant Rozanov's house with Bohun, where a heated debate erupts about Russia's role in the war, pacifism, and the Revolution. Bohun passionately argues against surrender to Germany, while Rozanov defends a spiritual, sacrificial path. The chapter ends with a brief, poignant exchange between Durward and Nina, who has left the Markovitch household.
Chapter 14
Chapter X
After the Easter Monday party, Durward walks with a depressed Bohun, who reflects on the seriousness of their situation. They part ways in the Mariensky Square, where Durward encounters a distraught Lawrence. Lawrence brings Durward to his rooms, confesses his love for Vera, and explains the complicated situation involving her husband Nicholas and the menacing Semyonov. Lawrence resolves to leave for England to protect Vera and Nicholas, breaking down emotionally before falling asleep.
Chapter 15
XI
On a stormy Tuesday, the narrator observes the chaotic ice and water from his window and decides to leave his romantic but leaky abode. After reading De la Mare's 'The Return,' he falls asleep and is awakened by Semyonov's knock. Semyonov claims to have come to say goodbye, though he is evasive about his plans. The narrator confronts him about his harmful behavior toward Vera and Nicholas. Semyonov reveals his obsession with a woman the narrator once knew, begging to talk about her, but the narrator refuses, confessing his own love for her. Semyonov speaks cryptically about being a haunted man and kisses the narrator before leaving.
Chapter 16
XII
Bohun witnesses a tense confrontation between Markovitch and Semyonov, where Semyonov taunts Markovitch about his failed inventions and his relationship with Vera. Later that night, Bohun sees Markovitch, seemingly deranged, retrieve a revolver and approach Semyonov's room, only to stop and turn a portrait to face the wall. Bohun is paralyzed by fear and a sense of impending crisis.
Chapter 17
XIII
Durward receives a desperate letter from Markovitch, who reveals his anguish over Vera's love for Lawrence, his manipulation by Semyonov, and his decision to end his life. After a severe bout of illness, Durward recovers and resolves to return to the Markovitches, fearing Semyonov's influence and anticipating the political events of late April and early May.
Chapter 18
XIV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, receives a visit from Vera Michailovna after a phone call to the Markovitch flat. Vera confesses her deep love for Jerry Lawrence and her inner turmoil over sending him back to England, revealing her contempt for her husband Nicholas and her own perceived weakness. Later, the narrator attends a public meeting where a Belgian Consul delivers an impassioned speech about Belgium's suffering, stirring the crowd. He also spots Boris Grogoff and the Rat, who gives him a silent farewell.
Chapter 19
XV
The narrator reflects on young Bohun's series of knightly adventures—first with Vera, then Markovitch, and finally Nina. He describes how Bohun, initially blind to Nina's plight, becomes increasingly troubled after she runs away with Boris Grogoff. Watching Vera's failed attempts to rescue her sister, Bohun secretly plans and executes a daring rescue, sneaking into Grogoff's flat and helping Nina escape. The chapter ends with Bohun vowing never to leave her.
Chapter 20
XVI
The narrator is haunted by a sense of duty toward Markovitch, feeling paralyzed like a spectator in a nightmare. After a restless night filled with apocalyptic dreams, he wakes late and rushes out, only to be swept into the May Day crowds. He follows Markovitch and Semyonov to Katerinhof park, where Semyonov is shot by Markovitch and dies with a cry of 'At last!', and Markovitch then turns the revolver on himself, dying in the narrator's arms with the word 'Vera' on his lips.
Chapter 21
Chapter XVII
Durward, recovering from illness, receives visits from Vera and Nina. Nina expresses disillusionment with the war and Russian society, revealing a cynical and apathetic attitude. After a week, Durward ventures out into Petrograd, experiencing the city's intense, melodramatic atmosphere. He encounters Jerry Lawrence on Nevski Prospect, who apologizes for not visiting and invites him to dinner.
Chapter 22
Chapter XVIII
Durward dines with Baron Wilderling and his wife, engaging in a political debate about Russian autocracy versus reform. Afterwards, Lawrence confesses his deep, selfless love for Vera Markovitch and seeks Durward's help to understand her unhappiness.
Chapter 23
XIX
Durward, paralyzed by a sense of impending danger and self-distrust, spends a fortnight in seclusion after Lawrence vanishes into the snow. He receives an invitation to Nina's eighteenth birthday party and embarks on a quest for the perfect gift, wandering through Petrograd's shops—from a jewel merchant to the English Shop—before finding a mother-of-pearl and silver box in the Jews' Market. Amid the chaotic, Eastern-flavored crowd, he is struck by a vision of a menacing crimson sun and then encounters Semyonov emerging from the church.
Chapter 24
XX
Durward encounters Semyonov in the market and is drawn into a tense conversation. Semyonov reveals his knowledge of the romantic feelings between Vera and Lawrence, and warns of the instability within the Markovitch household. Durward pleads with Semyonov to leave them alone, but Semyonov responds with a dark, philosophical story about a man who coveted death and manipulated a friend into murdering him.
Chapter 25
XXI
Durward attends a circus performance with Vera, Nina, Lawrence, and Bohun. He observes Vera's quiet happiness and Nina's desperate attempt to gain Lawrence's attention by placing her hand on his knee. Nina later confesses her feelings to Durward, revealing her jealousy of Vera and her threat to run away with Boris Grogoff if she cannot have Lawrence as a friend. Lawrence tactfully switches seats with Durward. Earlier, the Rat visits Durward, hinting at impending revolutionary trouble.
Chapter 26
XXII
At Nina's birthday party, tensions rise as political arguments erupt between Boris Grogoff and Nicholas Markovitch, culminating in Grogoff throwing a glass at Markovitch. Nina defuses the situation with a dramatic kiss, but underlying emotional currents—including a revealing look between Vera and Lawrence—suggest deeper conflicts. The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, leaves into a surreal, silent night.
Chapter 27
Part II: Lawrence
This chapter focuses on Jerry Lawrence, an Englishman in Petrograd, as he navigates the complexities of Russian society and his relationships with the Markovitch family, particularly Vera. Lawrence observes the growing political tensions and personal dramas around him, including his own conflicted feelings and the revolutionary undercurrents.
Chapter 28
I
The narrator collapses in the streets of Petrograd after the revolutionary events, overwhelmed by weakness and pain. He is rescued by an unknown person, possibly a black-bearded peasant, and manages to return home.
Chapter 29
II
Durward, recovering from illness, is cared for by the Rat and learns that his old landlady has left. He ventures outside on April 14, observing the thaw and the subtle signs of revolution, and feels abandoned by his friends.
Chapter 30
III
Durward encounters Nina by the river, who is visibly distressed and crying. She reveals that Uncle Alexei Semyonov has moved into the Markovitch flat, displacing Nicholas's inventions, and that Nicholas has become moody and secretive since the Revolution. Nina expresses distrust and a sense of impending trouble.
Chapter 31
IV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, is deeply disturbed by Nina's decision to leave her family and live with Boris Grogoff. He visits Grogoff's flat to persuade Nina to return, but finds Grogoff arrogant and dismissive. Nina refuses to come back, asserting her independence. The chapter also describes the massive funeral procession for the victims of the Revolution, highlighting the apathy and ignorance of the peasant masses. The narrator reflects on the ominous atmosphere of the Markovitch flat and his growing sense of helplessness.
Chapter 32
V
Durward, recovering from illness, receives a visit from Henry Bohun who discusses the strange changes in Markovitch after the Revolution, Semyonov's unsettling move into their flat, and Nina's sudden elopement with Grogoff. Vera confronts Durward about Nina's message hinting at a secret from Revolution week, while Bohun reflects on Markovitch's idealism and the complexities of Russian character.
Chapter 33
VI
Vera struggles with the aftermath of her surrender to Lawrence, torn between her love for him and her duties to Nina and Nicholas. She delays telling Nicholas about Lawrence, while Nina's flight with Grogoff devastates her. Meanwhile, the narrator reflects on the growing gulf between Russia and the Western world during the weeks before Easter, as revolutionary fervor gives way to uncertainty. Vera's deep-seated hatred for her uncle Semyonov is explored, rooted in childhood trauma and his manipulative influence over Nicholas.
Chapter 34
VII
On Easter Eve, Ivan Andreievitch is visited by Nicholas Markovitch, who is visibly miserable and slightly drunk. They walk together to the church, and Markovitch speaks at length about his fears, his disillusionment, and the influence of Alexei Petrovitch Semyonov, who has come to stay with his family. Markovitch confesses his terror of himself, of the city, and of Semyonov, and expresses his desperate hope that Russia will rise to greatness, while revealing that he has abandoned his inventions under Semyonov's influence.
Chapter 35
VIII
During an Easter service, the characters experience a moment of peace and mystery amidst the turmoil of Petrograd. Afterwards, at the Markovitch flat, tensions erupt when Semyonov taunts Nicholas about the Revolution, leading to a painful confession from Nicholas about witnessing Vera's love for another man. Vera openly acknowledges her love, and Nicholas retreats in distress.
Chapter 36
IX
On Easter Monday, Durward reluctantly attends a party at the merchant Rozanov's house with Bohun, where a heated debate erupts about Russia's role in the war, pacifism, and the Revolution. Bohun passionately argues against surrender to Germany, while Rozanov defends a spiritual, sacrificial path. The chapter ends with a brief, poignant exchange between Durward and Nina, who has left the Markovitch household.
Chapter 37
Chapter X
After the Easter Monday party, Durward walks with a depressed Bohun, who reflects on the seriousness of their situation. They part ways in the Mariensky Square, where Durward encounters a distraught Lawrence. Lawrence brings Durward to his rooms, confesses his love for Vera, and explains the complicated situation involving her husband Nicholas and the menacing Semyonov. Lawrence resolves to leave for England to protect Vera and Nicholas, breaking down emotionally before falling asleep.
Chapter 38
XI
On a stormy Tuesday, the narrator observes the chaotic ice and water from his window and decides to leave his romantic but leaky abode. After reading De la Mare's 'The Return,' he falls asleep and is awakened by Semyonov's knock. Semyonov claims to have come to say goodbye, though he is evasive about his plans. The narrator confronts him about his harmful behavior toward Vera and Nicholas. Semyonov reveals his obsession with a woman the narrator once knew, begging to talk about her, but the narrator refuses, confessing his own love for her. Semyonov speaks cryptically about being a haunted man and kisses the narrator before leaving.
Chapter 39
XII
Bohun witnesses a tense confrontation between Markovitch and Semyonov, where Semyonov taunts Markovitch about his failed inventions and his relationship with Vera. Later that night, Bohun sees Markovitch, seemingly deranged, retrieve a revolver and approach Semyonov's room, only to stop and turn a portrait to face the wall. Bohun is paralyzed by fear and a sense of impending crisis.
Chapter 40
XIII
Durward receives a desperate letter from Markovitch, who reveals his anguish over Vera's love for Lawrence, his manipulation by Semyonov, and his decision to end his life. After a severe bout of illness, Durward recovers and resolves to return to the Markovitches, fearing Semyonov's influence and anticipating the political events of late April and early May.
Chapter 41
XIV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, receives a visit from Vera Michailovna after a phone call to the Markovitch flat. Vera confesses her deep love for Jerry Lawrence and her inner turmoil over sending him back to England, revealing her contempt for her husband Nicholas and her own perceived weakness. Later, the narrator attends a public meeting where a Belgian Consul delivers an impassioned speech about Belgium's suffering, stirring the crowd. He also spots Boris Grogoff and the Rat, who gives him a silent farewell.
Chapter 42
Part III: Markovitch and Semyonov
The chapter focuses on the contrasting experiences of Markovitch and Semyonov during the revolution, highlighting Markovitch's disillusionment and Semyonov's pragmatic survival.
Chapter 43
I
The narrator collapses in the streets of Petrograd after the revolutionary events, overwhelmed by weakness and pain. He is rescued by an unknown person, possibly a black-bearded peasant, and manages to return home.
Chapter 44
II
Durward, recovering from illness, is cared for by the Rat and learns that his old landlady has left. He ventures outside on April 14, observing the thaw and the subtle signs of revolution, and feels abandoned by his friends.
Chapter 45
III
Durward encounters Nina by the river, who is visibly distressed and crying. She reveals that Uncle Alexei Semyonov has moved into the Markovitch flat, displacing Nicholas's inventions, and that Nicholas has become moody and secretive since the Revolution. Nina expresses distrust and a sense of impending trouble.
Chapter 46
IV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, is deeply disturbed by Nina's decision to leave her family and live with Boris Grogoff. He visits Grogoff's flat to persuade Nina to return, but finds Grogoff arrogant and dismissive. Nina refuses to come back, asserting her independence. The chapter also describes the massive funeral procession for the victims of the Revolution, highlighting the apathy and ignorance of the peasant masses. The narrator reflects on the ominous atmosphere of the Markovitch flat and his growing sense of helplessness.
Chapter 47
V
Durward, recovering from illness, receives a visit from Henry Bohun who discusses the strange changes in Markovitch after the Revolution, Semyonov's unsettling move into their flat, and Nina's sudden elopement with Grogoff. Vera confronts Durward about Nina's message hinting at a secret from Revolution week, while Bohun reflects on Markovitch's idealism and the complexities of Russian character.
Chapter 48
VI
Vera struggles with the aftermath of her surrender to Lawrence, torn between her love for him and her duties to Nina and Nicholas. She delays telling Nicholas about Lawrence, while Nina's flight with Grogoff devastates her. Meanwhile, the narrator reflects on the growing gulf between Russia and the Western world during the weeks before Easter, as revolutionary fervor gives way to uncertainty. Vera's deep-seated hatred for her uncle Semyonov is explored, rooted in childhood trauma and his manipulative influence over Nicholas.
Chapter 49
VII
On Easter Eve, Ivan Andreievitch is visited by Nicholas Markovitch, who is visibly miserable and slightly drunk. They walk together to the church, and Markovitch speaks at length about his fears, his disillusionment, and the influence of Alexei Petrovitch Semyonov, who has come to stay with his family. Markovitch confesses his terror of himself, of the city, and of Semyonov, and expresses his desperate hope that Russia will rise to greatness, while revealing that he has abandoned his inventions under Semyonov's influence.
Chapter 50
VIII
During an Easter service, the characters experience a moment of peace and mystery amidst the turmoil of Petrograd. Afterwards, at the Markovitch flat, tensions erupt when Semyonov taunts Nicholas about the Revolution, leading to a painful confession from Nicholas about witnessing Vera's love for another man. Vera openly acknowledges her love, and Nicholas retreats in distress.
Chapter 51
IX
On Easter Monday, Durward reluctantly attends a party at the merchant Rozanov's house with Bohun, where a heated debate erupts about Russia's role in the war, pacifism, and the Revolution. Bohun passionately argues against surrender to Germany, while Rozanov defends a spiritual, sacrificial path. The chapter ends with a brief, poignant exchange between Durward and Nina, who has left the Markovitch household.
Chapter 52
Chapter X
After the Easter Monday party, Durward walks with a depressed Bohun, who reflects on the seriousness of their situation. They part ways in the Mariensky Square, where Durward encounters a distraught Lawrence. Lawrence brings Durward to his rooms, confesses his love for Vera, and explains the complicated situation involving her husband Nicholas and the menacing Semyonov. Lawrence resolves to leave for England to protect Vera and Nicholas, breaking down emotionally before falling asleep.
Chapter 53
XI
On a stormy Tuesday, the narrator observes the chaotic ice and water from his window and decides to leave his romantic but leaky abode. After reading De la Mare's 'The Return,' he falls asleep and is awakened by Semyonov's knock. Semyonov claims to have come to say goodbye, though he is evasive about his plans. The narrator confronts him about his harmful behavior toward Vera and Nicholas. Semyonov reveals his obsession with a woman the narrator once knew, begging to talk about her, but the narrator refuses, confessing his own love for her. Semyonov speaks cryptically about being a haunted man and kisses the narrator before leaving.
Chapter 54
XII
Bohun witnesses a tense confrontation between Markovitch and Semyonov, where Semyonov taunts Markovitch about his failed inventions and his relationship with Vera. Later that night, Bohun sees Markovitch, seemingly deranged, retrieve a revolver and approach Semyonov's room, only to stop and turn a portrait to face the wall. Bohun is paralyzed by fear and a sense of impending crisis.
Chapter 55
XIII
Durward receives a desperate letter from Markovitch, who reveals his anguish over Vera's love for Lawrence, his manipulation by Semyonov, and his decision to end his life. After a severe bout of illness, Durward recovers and resolves to return to the Markovitches, fearing Semyonov's influence and anticipating the political events of late April and early May.
Chapter 56
XIV
The narrator, Ivan Andreievitch, receives a visit from Vera Michailovna after a phone call to the Markovitch flat. Vera confesses her deep love for Jerry Lawrence and her inner turmoil over sending him back to England, revealing her contempt for her husband Nicholas and her own perceived weakness. Later, the narrator attends a public meeting where a Belgian Consul delivers an impassioned speech about Belgium's suffering, stirring the crowd. He also spots Boris Grogoff and the Rat, who gives him a silent farewell.
Chapter 57
XV
The narrator reflects on young Bohun's series of knightly adventures—first with Vera, then Markovitch, and finally Nina. He describes how Bohun, initially blind to Nina's plight, becomes increasingly troubled after she runs away with Boris Grogoff. Watching Vera's failed attempts to rescue her sister, Bohun secretly plans and executes a daring rescue, sneaking into Grogoff's flat and helping Nina escape. The chapter ends with Bohun vowing never to leave her.
Chapter 58
XVI
The narrator is haunted by a sense of duty toward Markovitch, feeling paralyzed like a spectator in a nightmare. After a restless night filled with apocalyptic dreams, he wakes late and rushes out, only to be swept into the May Day crowds. He follows Markovitch and Semyonov to Katerinhof park, where Semyonov is shot by Markovitch and dies with a cry of 'At last!', and Markovitch then turns the revolver on himself, dying in the narrator's arms with the word 'Vera' on his lips.
Chapter 59
Endnotes
The endnotes provide translations and explanations for foreign phrases used throughout the novel, including Russian and French expressions such as 'Comrades,' 'Who knows?,' and 'New Life!'
