This may be a somewhat lengthy tale from Chekhov, but it is one which holds much in the way of literary 'delight' for the reader. It's size allows Chekhov to build up empathy for one of the characters, and this becomes the whole focal point of the story. Sombre, sad, and somewhat sorrowful, the reader won't be taking away any sensations of the 'feel good factor' from this story. But, he/she will definitely come out of the other end of this tale knowing just how incredible Chekhov's storytelling capabilities are. The true lesson to come from this story for the reader however, is the need for one to think (or at least find out), before one acts.