Why do Eliezer and his father lie to their relative Stein that they’ve heard good news from his wife and their two sons?

in 3 sentences

Eliezer and his father lie to their relative Stein about hearing good news from his wife and sons because they want to protect him from the heartbreaking truth. Stein is already going through significant suffering, and sharing the news of their deaths would only add to his pain and despair. The lie is a form of compassion and an attempt to provide some solace in a dire situation.