An unnamed estate owner who values his leisure and seclusion. After handling practical business matters, he settles into his green velvet armchair to indulge in reading. He treats literature as a way to withdraw from the world around him, giving himself over to the fictional plots he consumes.

A character within the story the protagonist reads. He arrives at a secret meeting place with his dagger hidden close to his chest. His mind remains entirely focused on executing a violent plan. His active dynamism provides a direct contrast to the passive nature of the person reading about him.

A character in the fictional text engaged in a secretive affair. She initially stanches her lover's bleeding face with kisses, displaying apprehension about the violent plot they have devised. She ultimately commits to their plan by detailing the layout of an estate to guide his movements.

An employee responsible for the administrative affairs of the protagonist's property. He discusses matters of joint ownership with the estate owner before the owner retires to his study.