He first gives an extra horse to Luka, who accepts the present yet doesn't trust Olenin on his motives. As time goes on, however, though he gains the respect of the local villagers, another Russian named Beletsky, who is still attached to the ways of Moscow, comes and partially corrupts Olenin's ideals and convinces him through his actions to attempt to win Maryanka's love.
Initially, the protagonist gives a horse to Luka, who accepts it but remains wary of Olenin's motives. Over time, however, he earns the respect of the villagers and another Russian named Beletsky arrives, subtly corrupting Olenin's ideals and encouraging him to pursue Maryanka's love through his actions.