The Mayor summons the civic leaders, gathering them in his house. They discuss the best way to deal with the government inspector. The suggestions include a bribe and a series of meetings, in which they all talk individually to Khlestakov in private. They cannot agree who will have the first meeting, however, so the discussion is derailed. They are interrupted by a sound from Khlestakov’s room above them. They jump up and flee from the room.

Khlestakov enters the room where the men were just gathered. He is impressed by his satisfying sleep, even though the many heavy covers have left him “dripping with sweat” (296). He hopes to have a good time at the Mayor’s house, particularly with both Anna and Maria.

The Judge appears in the room. He introduces himself to Khlestakov, who encourages him to sit down. The Judge is holding on to a bribe, but the money seems as though it is “burning a hole in [his] hand” (297). When he begins to speak arrogantly about his role in the town, he accidently lets the bribe fall to the floor. He panics, worried that he has ruined his chance. Khlestakov spots the money.