“No. In the country they must have a land-qualification, and pay so much tax to Government; besides which, before they can exercise their franchise, they must swear to the Constitution. People think much more of the privilege than they did formerly. Several have qualified lately. The more voters, the more Storthing’s-men, so that the Storthing is increasing in number.”
As we scud along, we pass a stage projecting from a rock. This is a Laxstie, or place where salmon are caught, as they swim by, by means of a capstan-net, which is hoisted up suddenly as they pass over it. But I shall have occasion to describe one of these curious contrivances hereafter.
“Very curious fish, those salmon,” continued my informant. “They are very fond of light—like moths for that; always like to take up the Fjord where the cliffs are lowest—at least, so I hear.”
The breeze being fresh, we went gaily along; “So hurtig som sex” (as quick as six), said the man, using a saying of the country. Presently, he fastened the sheet, drew a lump of tobacco out of his waistcoat-pocket, and began to chew.
“You must not fasten the sheet,” interposed I.
“Why, you are not ‘sö-raed’ (frightened of the sea)?”
“No; but you Norskmen are very careless. Supposing a Kaste-wind comes from that mountain plump upon us, where are you?”
“Oh, that is never the case in summer.”
“Can you swim?” said I.
“No.”