Varenukha

Introduced as the energetic administrator of the Variety Theatre, handling telegrams and searching for Styopa. Varenukha arrives at Rimsky’s office at midnight, displays a bruised, pallid appearance, lies about Likhodeev, fails to cast a shadow, and eventually floats out the window as supernatural events unfold. Administrator who lied out of fear, was beaten by two men, spent two days in Apartment No. 50 as a tip‑off vampire, and begged for a bullet‑proof cell. Varenukha enjoys universal popularity, is addressed as “father‑benefactor,” and his telephone voice is described as soft and sad.