Franz noticed several unusual things about the school that day. Firstly, there was an unusual silence and stillness all around; the usual noise of children, the opening and closing of desks, and the teacher's ruler rapping on the desk were absent, making the school seem as quiet as a Sunday morning. Secondly, M. Hamel, the teacher, was dressed in his best clothes, which he usually wore only on special occasions. Thirdly, the village elders, who normally did not attend, were sitting quietly on the back benches. This solemn atmosphere was unlike the usual busy and noisy school environment Franz was familiar with. These unusual observations made the day feel very different and tense for Franz.