The Gambler
Tutor Alexei loves Polina, the General’s ward, who is indebted to the Marquis. The General hopes to inherit money from his aunt Babulenka so he can marry Blanche. When Babulenka arrives alive and gambles away much of her fortune, the General’s hopes collapse. The Marquis tells Polina that he will forgive part of a debt in exchange for ending their relationship. Alexei wins repeatedly at roulette and offers Polina money, but she throws it back at him and leaves. He remains alone, fixated on his success at the tables.