Chapter 9, America Chest Summary

In Chapter 9, Karl Oskar prepares for his journey to America. The news about his trip spreads in the village. Other villagers warn him of potential losses and less likely gains in such an undertaking. Karl responds that there is little to gain by remaining here, as even they themselves haven't changed. Karl's family learns about American nature and culture. They pull out their old big chest in preparation for the trip.

Their uncle Danjel faces court and fines due to his preachings. Learning that Karl wants to travel to America, he decides to join him to escape courts. Karl agrees to arrange for additional tickets for Danjel, his family, and Arvid, who is now Danjel's farmhand. Arvid had to leave Nybacken, as Aron no longer wanted to employ a farmhand called bull. Only Danjel, shunned by others, could employ...