The weather was vile. In this respect Hans Castorp had no luck during the brief term of his visit. It did not snow, but rained all day long, a hateful downpour; thick mist wrapped the valley, while electric stormsâ âan absurd and uncalled-for phenomenon, considering it was so cold that the heat had been turned onâ ârolled and reverberated disagreeably through the valley.
âToo bad,â Joachim said. âI thought we might take our luncheons and climb up to the Schatzalp, or something like that. But it seems it is not to happen. Let us hope the last week will be better.â
But Hans Castorp answered: âLet be. I am not so anxious to undertake anything for the moment. My first excursion was no great success. I find it does me more good just to take the day as it comes, without too much variation. I leave that sort of thing to people who have been up here for years. What do I want of variety in my three weeksâ time?â