Why did the author think that Frau Frieda’s dreams were a stratagem for surviving? Did he believe in her prophetic ability?

Question-Why did the author think that Frau Frieda’s dreams were a stratagem for surviving? Did he believe in her prophetic ability?

The correct answer is : (b) Her conversations made it clear that, dream by dream, she had taken over the entire fortune of her patrons in Vienna. Author knew that they were no more than a stratagem as she said that she sold them for a living and he realized the reality
behind her interpretations – interpreted dreams of the religious family – finally asked them to go away for five years –
bequeathed a part of their estate – the author believe in her dreams as he left Vienna and never returned.