Sylvius Hogg was, of course, kept informed of what was going on.  Such an attempt on the mother’s part would only be another trial added to those Hulda was already obliged to endure, and he was anxious to avert it if possible.  Joel mentioned the subject to him sometimes.

“Isn’t my sister right in refusing?” he asked.  “And am I not justified in upholding her in her refusal?”

“Unquestionably,” replied Sylvius Hogg.  “And yet, from a mathematical point of view, your mother is a million times right.  But the science of mathematics does not govern everything in this world.  Calculation has nothing to do with the promptings of the heart.”

During the next two weeks they were obliged to watch Hulda very closely, for the state of her health was such as to excite serious anxiety.  Fortunately loving care and attention were not wanting.  At Sylvius Hogg’s request, the celebrated Dr. Bock, a personal friend, came to Dal to see the young invalid.  He could only prescribe rest, and quiet of soul, if that were possible; but the only sure means of curing her was Ole’s return, and this means God only could provide.  Still, Sylvius Hogg was untiring in his efforts to console the young girl.  His words were ever words of hope, and strange as it may appear, Sylvius Hogg did not despair.

Thirteen days had now elapsed since the arrival of the ticket forwarded by the Navy Department.  It was now the thirteenth of June.  A fortnight more, and the drawing of the lottery would take place with great pomp in the main hall of the University of Christiania.

On the morning of the thirtieth day of June Sylvius Hogg received another letter from the Navy Department.  This letter advised him to confer with the maritime authorities of Bergen, and authorized him to immediately organize an expedition to search for the missing “Viking.”

The professor did not want Joel or Hulda to know what he intended to do, so he merely told them that he must leave them for a few days to attend to some business matters.

“Pray do not desert us, Mister Sylvius,” said the poor girl.

“Desert you—­you, whom I regard as my own children!” replied Sylvius Hogg.

Joel offered to accompany him, but not wishing him to know that he was going to Bergen, the professor would only allow him to go as far as Moel.  Besides, it would not do for Hulda to be left alone with her mother.  After being confined to her bed several days, she was now beginning to sit up a little, though she was still very weak and not able to leave her room.

At eleven o’clock the kariol was at the door of the inn, and after bidding Hulda good-bye, the professor took his seat in the vehicle beside Joel.  In another minute they had both disappeared behind a large clump of birches at the turn in the road.

That same evening Joel returned to Dal.

END OF FIRST HALF.