Final answer:
A commuter might react with shock, sympathy, and curiosity to Lieutenant O'Brien's diary entry, considering the complexities of betrayal, ethical dilemmas, and the media's role in exposing corruption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The commuter on public transportation reading Lieutenant O'Brien's diary entry might feel a blend of shock, sympathy, and curiosity. The diary entries divulge personal feelings, professional conflicts, and ethical dilemmas, engaging the reader in a mix of personal drama and social commentary. For a public reader, the betrayal by Mildred revealing confidential information to the press presents a complex scenario where personal and professional boundaries are crossed.
Moreover, the way the Atlantic & Eastern scandal is presented might evoke thoughts about the integrity within corporations and the role of the media in exposing corruption. The commuter may also ruminate on the repercussions of sharing sensitive information with close relatives, considering how O'Brien's trust in Mildred led to unforeseen consequences.