The hiding family remain in a constant dread . comment .

THe whole reason they were hiding is because the Nazis were looking for Jews. THe constant fear is they would be found out. They had to be quiet and discreet in their own home. THey were suspicious of strangers and knocks at the door. They were so isolated for so long. Nobody could even go out. They slowly lost the ability to tell exact time. Clocks and watches would slow or stop.