Nicole has been in Franz’s care while Dick recovers in Rome. The narrative focus in this chapter is from the perspective of Franz and Kaethe (Franz’s wife).

Kaethe hints to her husband at an inappropriate relationship forming between him and Nicole, since they spend a lot of time together in Dick’s absence. Franz argues with his wife about it. Kaethe expresses her dislike of Nicole.

Two weeks later, after the Divers come over for dinner, Franz and Kaethe resume their discussion. Kaethe, having seen Dick’s bruises and smelt alcohol on his breath, says that Dick is no longer a serious man, and Franz defends him. They discuss Dick and Nicole’s strengths and weaknesses.

As time goes by, Franz begins to believe what his wife said is true and loses faith in Dick.

After the death of a patient whom Dick had cared for with affection, Dick displays signs of weariness to Franz during a meeting with him one day in the clinic. Franz, beginning to desire a clean break from Dick and ultimately to fire him, suggests he take an assignment in Lausanne.

In Lausanne, Dick meets a hysterical father who complains about his son’s immoral behavior.