In which the morning following a fire brings an unexpected, brusque visit from Herr Dellwig, whose pressing concern leads him to confront the young vicar Klutz with troubling suspicions, setting a tense scene at the railway station. Observed quietly by Herrn and Frau Manske, Dellwig's provocative interrogation and subsequent revelations stir unease beneath the day's fine weather, whilst back home a discreet celebration hints at shifting fortunes.