planks. K. forewent the opportunity to excuse himself in some way as he did not wish to distract the painter from what he was saying, or else perhaps he didn't want him to get too far above himself and in this way make himself to some extent unattainable, so he asked, “Is that a publicly acknowledged position?” “No,” was the painter's curt reply, as if the question prevented him saying any more.

But K. wanted him to continue speaking and said, “Well, positions like that, that aren't officially acknowledged, can often have more influence than those that are.” “And that's how it is with me,” said the painter, and nodded with a frown. “I was talking about your case with the manufacturer yesterday, and he asked me if I wouldn't like to help you, and I answered: 'He can