differently from before, examining her. She stood up, as he had also stood up, and was a little self- conscious, she hadn't been able to understand everything that K. said. As a result of this self consciousness she said something that she certainly did not intend and certainly was not appropriate. “Don't take it so hard, Mr. K.,” she said, with tears in her voice and also, of course, forgetting the handshake. “I didn't know I was taking it hard,” said K., feeling suddenly tired and seeing that if this woman did agree with him it was of very little value.

Before going out the door he asked, “Is Miss B�rstner home?” “No,” said Mrs. Grubach, smiling as she gave this simple piece of information, saying something sensible at last. “She's at the theatre. Did you want to see