Peter decides not to resign, which he informs Alexander. He is ready to serve the emperor as before. Alexander is pensive, he understands that not signing the decree is only a temporary measure, it will not stop Palen. Alexander is desperate – he has no one to rely on. Lugin and Pyotr quarrel, Lugin, determined to resign, accuses Cherkasov of indecision. Peter ponders how to rid Alexander of Palen's influence. Ksenia decides to act.