"He is here to inspect the operations at the harbour. You know that Irgens is dead."
"The engineer? is he dead?"
"They say now that Captain Röy will probably take his place."
"Is it work for a man like him?"
"Many are no doubt asking the same question—asking what brings him here," laughed Jörgen.
Mary looked at him and he at Mary. Then he went nearer to her. "But now he comes too late."
He had expected an understanding glance in answer—possibly with a little happiness in it. She walked on without looking at him, and without speaking.
They were silent for a long time, walking fast in the refreshing autumn breeze. At last she turned towards him, with the intention of giving him a pleasant surprise.
"Do you know, Jörgen, that Father has two hundred thousand kroner invested in Uncle Klaus's business?"
"He has two hundred and fifty thousand," Jörgen answered.