What do you learn about the family members from their reactions to the intruder downstairs? Were the various reactions surprising to you? Explain.(Glencoe Edition)

Mrs. Van Daan's first suggestion is to pay them off. This shows that her old ways of viewing and dealing with people is still very much a part of who she is. Mr. Van Daan blames Peter for making the noise that caused the thief to run away. Anne faints. Margot and her mother pray. Mr. Frank and Mr. Dussel determine to go down to investigate eventually.