When Elie and his father arrive at their new camp, they are greeted by Stein from Antwerp, a distant relative. Stein asks Elie if he has any news about Stein's family. In reality, Elie has no information about Stein's family; however, he lies and tells Stein that his family is alive and doing well. Why does he do this? At this point, Elie has realized the role of hope in survival. He knows that if he gives Stein hope, he will increase Stein's chances of making it through the concentration camp. Elie has little materially to offer, but this is something he can give.
Unfortunately, the "gift" is short-lived. When a transport arrives from Antwerp soon after, Stein learns the actual fate of his family and never visits Elie again.
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