The correct answer is that both characters are concerned about Ivan Ilych Golovin's health. Other than that they have few similarities: Vladimir Ivanich (Peter Ivanovich in most versions) studied law with Ivan Ilych, while Gerasim is a young butler in the Golovin household. Therefore they share neither age nor social class, nor do they have a similar mindset. However, both care about Ivan Ilych: Vladimir Ivanich recognizes that his friend's condition is serious, and is alone among Ivan Ilych's acquaintances in not treating him as a nuisance. Gerasim, on the other hand, becomes attached to Ivan Ilych during his sickness and becomes his major source of consolation.