Final answer:
The information provided does not give a clear description of the wife's response to meeting the professor. Analyzing the narrative and character interactions suggests that her response is nuanced and might be inferred from indirect cues within the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The response of the wife when meeting the professor is not explicitly detailed within the information provided, but we can infer from the surrounding context and the reaction of other characters. The literature snippets suggest varied encounters and emotions, but we need more information to determine the specific response of the wife to the professor. In scenarios like these, characters may display a range of reactions, from curiosity to disdain, as illustrated by the regal-looking woman's dismissal with her gesture and the great lady's hospitable reception. It implies that the wife's response could be multifaceted and nuanced, depending partially on her background, the setting of the meeting, and her current emotional state.
Without a specific excerpt that directly addresses the wife's interaction with the professor, one would need to carefully analyze the narrative for subtle clues to her demeanor and attitude. This analysis could include examining other characters' comments on the wife, such as Lars Ebbling's gratitude for communication despite a language barrier, or the man thoughtfully considering a lock of hair and flowers before questioning the lounging woman, which might suggest a deeper, previously established connection between characters. These indirect pieces of information can help build a more comprehensive picture of how the wife might respond in different contexts.