The years 1905 to 1910 are dominated by the unfortunate development of Erik, the oldest of the Pringsheim children. While Peter, Heinz, and Klaus give little cause for concern and Katja, Thomas Mann, and the growing number of grandchildren bring Hedwig Pringsheim much joy, Erik remains the family's troubled child. After passing his legal state exam and having a rather unremarkable military service, marred by dueling disputes, he drifts aimlessly and repeatedly engages in scandalous financial behavior. He is sent to Argentina for probation, where Hedwig Pringsheim visits him and is disappointed to find that he has not changed. However, after Erik finally finds an estancia and surprisingly gets married in April 1908, the family begins to harbor new hope. In early January 1909, however, the shocking news arrives that Erik has died under mysterious circumstances. The cause of death remains unclear.