Chapters 3 and 4 Summary

August describes the scope of the castle as being so big that 1,000 people could easily live there. This expanse allows each occupant his choice of spacious accommodations extending from the main rooms of the kitchen and the great room where all the occupants (called the tribe) gather for relaxation before the roaring fireplace. The print shop is also located in the castle in an upper level of one of the towers. This location was selected to hinder visitors, who are not welcome in this inner sanctum.

On a cold day after lunch in the great room, the tribe is interrupted by the appearance of a forlorn-looking boy of about 16 or 17. This timid creature, dressed in rags, is looking only for food and a place to rest for a short while. Frau Stein wants the boy thrown out, but Old Katrina, who...