The daily problems of obtaining and preparing food, getting along with the various members of the group, contacts with the outside world and news of the progress of the war still occupy Anne's thoughts to a considerable extent. But some things have changed. Anne's feelings about Peter, for example, cause her to be very reserved with her family, and she says, ". . . the brightest spot of all is that at least I can write down my thoughts and feelings, otherwise I would be absolutely stifled!" (March 16, 1944).
As we read, we realize that Anne continues to resent being cooped up with the other members of the group and that she still objects to being treated as a child, for she says, "Although I'm only fourteen, I know quite well what I want, I know who is right and who is wrong, I have my opinions, my own ideas and principles, and although it may sound pretty mad from an adolescent, I feel more of a person than a child, I feel quite independent of anyone" (March 17, 1944).
More and more, Peter and Anne confide in one another, and Anne records their conversations in her diary. As they open their hearts to one another, talking about their initial impressions of one another when the group first went into hiding, they realize that they have even more in common than they had ever imagined. Anne, however, is sad at the thought that Margot is made wretched by Anne's relationship with Peter, since Margot also likes him, but Margot assures Anne, in a letter, that it is not that she herself loves Peter, but, rather, that she regrets not having found anyone for herself yet. This sets off a touching exchange of letters between Margot and Anne, in which each one shows her concern for the other's feelings. It was obviously easier for them both to set their emotions down on paper than to talk about them face-to-face.
