Who is Soloviev from Meetings with Remarkable Men and what is their importance?

Soloviev accompanies Gurdjieff while they traverse the Himalayas. Gurdjieff first meets Soloviev while four men are beating him up, and Gurdjieff comes the the man's aid. Soloviev had ruined his life through drink and irresponsible behavior. He turns this around with the help of Gurdjieff. They both decide to join the Seekers of Truth and attempt to cross the Gobi Desert on an expedition. Along the way a wild camel kills Soloviev.