"He has such strange ways," began the mother, presently; "he was so often frightened when he was a child that he got into the habit of thinking everything over to himself, and such folks never know how to put themselves forward."
Now Eli insisted on turning back, but Margit assured her that it was only a short distance now to Kampen, and see Kampen she must, as she was so near. But Eli thought it was too late that day.
"There is always some one who can go home with you," said Margit.
"No, no," promptly replied Eli, and was about to leave.
"To be sure, Arne is not at home," said Margit; "so it will not be he; but there will be sure to be some one else."
Now Eli had less objection to going; besides, she wanted very much to see Kampen. "If only it does not grow too late," said she.
"Well, if we stand here much longer talking about it, I suppose it may grow too late," and they went on.
"You have read a great deal, I dare say; you who were brought up at the priest's?"
Yes, Eli had read a good deal.
"That will be useful," Margit suggested, "when you are married to one who knows less than you."