“O, that is not my opinion.  In winter-time, when Ragnar is at home, he procures us many a savory dish with his gun.”

“Yes, but I think that if Ragnar has disturbed the hunting grounds of Almvik, he may consider himself fortunate if the proprietor has not poached upon his own premises in return.  The affairs of Almvik are far differently conducted than they were formerly, under the sway of the ancient proprietor.”

During their conversation the old man and Magde had taken no notice of Carl, who, while he listened to their words, contorted his face in such a manner that it would have been difficult to decide whether he was laughing or crying.  He placed his hands over his face; but between his fingers his eyes could be seen peering out with a peculiar expression at Magde.

“I will no longer feign ignorance of your meaning, father,” replied Magde, with a visible effort to suppress her anger.  “It is true that in words, and even in actions, he has conducted himself with more presumption than he would have dared to assume last winter; but fear not, I well know how to protect the honor of my name.”

“And as you thus speak you vainly endeavor to conceal your emotions,” said the old man suspiciously.

“Do not think that he has endeavored to plant his snare for a simple dove.  When he would snatch his prize, he may learn that I possess both beak and talons.”

“Well, my child,” replied Mr. Lonner, with a laugh, “it is a fortunate chance that you are the daughter of a father who was a man of the world; but your birth entitled you to a higher position in life than that which you now occupy.”

“You speak strangely, father.”

“Why, you might have married Mr. Trystedt who possessed riches and lands, while now you live in absolute poverty.”

“Why should you think of that?  Is it not better to live in poverty with love, than to possess untold riches without love?  Does the whole earth contain a better husband than my Ragnar?  Is he not a skillful sailor?  I have no doubt but that had he not been married he would long ago have been promoted to a captaincy.  He is a thousand times more of a gentleman, at any time, than that old Trystedt, who was a torment to all he whom he met.”

“Thank God!  If you are satisfied, then all is right, and even if we are at present in straightened circumstances all will be made right when Jonson arrives.  I hope that he will be careful of the goods entrusted to him.”

A slight noise in an adjoining room, notified the mother that her infant child had awakened.  She instantly arose and left the apartment.  Magde was a dignified and elegant woman, although her countenance was pleasing rather than beautiful, and as she moved towards the door the old man’s eyes followed her with a gaze of admiration and love.

CHAPTER III.

Husband and wife.