Chapter 6, conclusion Summary

Joachim's letters to Hans Castorp gradually change. At first, they are ecstatic, as Joachim is excused from officer's school due to his university years, and becomes a lieutenant. In late spring, he gets a slight cold, but recovers. He worries about missing maneuvers in August. Finally, Hans hears from Joachim's mother that Joachim's persistent temperature rise means he must return to the Berghof. Hans is both delighted and disturbed. When Joachim arrives, he is excited, flushed, and talkative, disturbing his mother Luise, who punctures his mood by remarking that he is just as he was on the day of his promotion. Marusya and her great-aunt have returned from their unauthorized trip. At dinner, Frau Ziemssen mentions that she had met someone in Munich, a Frau Chauchat, who asked her to greet Joachim. Frau Chauchat was headed for a sanatorium in Spain...