Leo Tolstoy

“ A savant, about fifty years old, with quiet, deferential, and self-possessed manners in society, and a similar slow singing speech. He likes to hear himself talk. He maintains a contemptuous reserve towards those who do not agree with him. ”

“ A vigorous man of about sixty, deferential, affable, gentlemanly. He is a believer in Spiritualism, and takes pleasure in startling people by the recital of his stories.
ANNA PAVLOVNA SVESDINZEFF, his wife, a stout, blooming lady, with the desire of appearing young: She entertains a strict regard for the conventional social forms, esteems her husband lightly, and puts a blind trust in her physician. An casily excitable lady.
BETSY, their daughter, a young lady of high society, about twenty years old. She is free in her manners, wears eyeglasses, flirts desperately, and laughs much. ”

“ An elegant gentleman, of wide European culture, engaged in nothing and interested in everything. His carriage is dignified and at times even severe. THEODORE IVÁNITCH. Personal attendant on Zvezdíntsef, aged about 60. A man of some education and fond of information. Uses his pince-nez and pocket-handkerchief too much, unfolding the latter very slowly. Takes an interest in politics. Is kindly and sensible. GREGORY. A footman, about 28, handsome, profligate, envious, and insolent. ”