This chapter opens with a soliloquy by Dostoevsky in which he tells us that he has come to visit Polonia, and that he will stay for a few hours with the women and children. He tells them that he and his companions will leave tomorrow morning and that they will need to find a guide to take them through the country. He also warns them not to touch Polonia's son, who has a fever and is ill. Dominque tells him not to worry, as he is well-versed in the country's affairs. She also tells him that he should not touch the spots on the boy's face, as they are caused by the dead spirits of birds. She tells him to give her a simple night, and he agrees. He then tells her that they must visit the tomb of the ancient Roman Emperor, Augustus, in Rome. He says that the city of Polonia is coming to pillage the tomb, which he hopes will not happen for a long time.