Paragraphs 23-27 (Page 3) Summary

The thief continues to make fun of Jonathan, noting that even with many men calling out loudly for assistance, the police are not coming. Jonathan realizes that he is on his own. The thief offers to call once again, this time requesting soldiers (i.e., "soja", paragraph 24, p. 3). Jonathan realizes assistance in any form is not forthcoming and declines the thief's sarcastically polite request to call out for soldiers.

Paragraphs 23-27 (Page 3) Analysis

Jonathan and Maria attempt to summon aid and raise the alarm. Clearly the frightened neighbors will not come to their assistance and local law enforcement is not interested in challenging the thieves. Jonathan realizes he is entirely within the power of the thieves and surrenders himself to this distasteful fact. The dialogue between Jonathan and the thieves now begins as they negotiate for advantage.

It is...