There have been exciting times here, but Papa says I must not tell about it, for reasons also that I cannot write about. I can say that we had a visit from the Gestapo—yes, right here at Lebenshaus! They went all around, poking so rudely about with their guns and big black boots, breaking things and being dreadful to Papa. I probably shouldn’t say all that, but I don’t care—they are so mean!

Nothing came of it, but Papa was so serious after they left and kept saying over and over, “What is coming to our homeland? What is coming to Germany?” He says it is not good, and that it will not get better. What does your father say, Matthew? Are you in any danger in Berlin? We sometimes hear there are bad things that happen in the city.

But guess what—this is news of a happier note! I will be finished with Gymnasium after the first of the year. Papa and Mama have always talked about sending me to England to study literature at Oxford if that was my desire. I will be seventeen then, but now with all the trouble between our Herr Hitler and Mr. Chamberlain, Papa thinks I should not go until we see how the situation resolves itself. It is a little fearsome for me to think of going so far from home anyway, so I am not exactly saddened by this decision.

So I am going to go to Switzerland for five months instead! Isn’t it exciting? The only drawback is that the moment my Uncle Otto heard of it, he made arrangements for Brigitte to go with me!

Sabina

Dear Sabina,

What great news about your trip to Switzerland! I’m certain you will be able to survive five months with your cousin.

Life here for me goes on as usual. I have my studies and schooling. I go some of the time to a school for Americans in Germany, and also I have a tutor. I’m afraid I do not share your enthusiasm for English literature. I would rather read mysteries than Jane Eyre and Moby Dick (I have had to read both this year and write papers on them). They are both in my native language, but I am certain you understand them more than I do. Our teacher is always talking about symbolism and themes, but I can’t make heads or tails out of it. Mathematics and science are more to my liking.

My father is busier and more tense from the political situation. I can tell that. In our embassy they are walking such a fine line with everything they say in trying to remain officially neutral.