The next evening in Melchior’s study, Moritz describes studying until he collapsed the previous night. Moritz vows to kill himself if he doesn’t secure the spot in the next grade, explaining that his parents have sacrificed everything for him to attend school. Melchior says life is cruel, then quips, “I could see hanging myself in a tree.—What’s taking Mama with the tea!” (30).

Moritz feels detached from his own body and sees a dreamlike vision of veiled figures crossing the moonlit lawn outside. The rustling leaves outside remind Moritz of his grandmother’s story of the Queen Without a Head. The queen is the most beautiful woman in the world but cannot partake in the basic joys of life, such as eating and kissing, because she lacks a head. One day, she marries a king with two heads—one between his shoulders and one between his legs—that are always arguing, who gives her his extra head. They live happily ever after. Moritz feels like the headless queen.

Melchior’s mother, Mrs. Gabor, brings the boys tea. She remarks that Moritz looks unwell and advises him to take time from his homework to go outside. Melchior tells his mother about the heartless response their friend

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