One day the guards notice that someone has been strewing dirt around the grounds, and they search the prison and find a tunnel. Aksionov had found out earlier that it was Makar Semyonich who was digging the hole, but, after being questioned by the police, Aksionov declares that it is not his place to speak about the matter. Makar Semyonich approaches Aksionov that night in a terrible state, eventually admitting to Aksionov that it was he who robbed and killed the merchant and he also planned to murder Aksionov but spared him after hearing noises. Aksionov forgives Semyonich, and he feels as if a terrible weight has been lifted. Makar Semyonich confesses to the authorities, and the process for Aksionov to be acquitted begins. However, Aksionov dies before he can be released.