Chapter 26: Anna Karénine - Tome I (Summary)

Dolly steps out of her bedroom during tea time while Stépane Arcadiévitch emerges from another door. Anna watches closely, hoping to read the emotional climate of the household and determine whether Dolly and her husband have successfully mended their relationship. Stépane Arcadiévitch enters the salon, and his cheerful voice immediately reassures both Anna and Kitty that a reconciliation has indeed taken place. Dolly discusses moving Anna to a more comfortable room on the same floor, though she humorously doubts her husband is capable of arranging the window curtains properly without causing a complete mess. Stépane Arcadiévitch responds with a lighthearted smile, and Dolly maintains a gently teasing tone toward him throughout the evening while he remains visibly happy and relieved. Around half past nine, an animated conversation unfolds around the tea table among the gathered company. Anna mentions an acquaintance from Petersburg and decides to go upstairs to retrieve her photograph album, which also contains a picture of her beloved young son Serge. The mention of her child stirs a strong wave of maternal longing and sadness within her, making her wish she could see his face or speak to him. She leaves the room with her usual light and determined step to fetch the book. As Anna walks toward the staircase, a sudden doorbell rings in the antechamber. Speculation arises among the group as to who might be visiting at such a late hour, with Stépane Arcadiévitch guessing the visitor might be bringing work documents for him. Looking down from the staircase railing, Anna is startled to recognize Wronsky standing in the vestibule. Her heart reacts with a sudden mixture of joy and apprehension as she sees him searching through his pockets under the hall lamp. Wronsky looks up and catches sight of Anna on the stairs, his face instantly taking on a humble and confused expression. She acknowledges him with a slight nod just as Stépane Arcadiévitch loudly urges him to come in. By the time Anna returns downstairs with her album, Wronsky has already left. Stépane Arcadiévitch explains to the company that the visitor merely stopped by to check the schedule for a dinner happening the following day. Meanwhile, Kitty blushes privately, suspecting that Wronsky came looking for her but left without entering because of the late hour and Anna presence. The unexpected visit leaves everyone feeling somewhat surprised and unsettled.