The peculiar and far from musical sounds spread wide over the pastures and up the slopes, and through the distant woods, so that the cattle of another seater stood to listen, and her own cows began to move, leaving the sweetest tufts of grass and rising up from their couches in the richest herbage, to converge towards the point whence she called. The far-off herdsman observed to his fellow that there was a new call among the pastures; and Erlingsen, on the upland, desired Jan and Stiorna to finish cocking the hay, and began his descent to his seater, to learn whether Erica had brought any news from home.
Long before he could appear, Frolich threw herself down at Erica's feet.
"You want news," said Erica, avoiding as usual all conversation about her superstitions. "How will it please you that the bishop is coming?"
"Very much, if we had any chance of seeing him. Very much, whether we see him or not, if he can give any help—any advice. My poor Erica, I do not like to ask; but you have had no good news, I fear."
Erica shook her head.
"I saw that in your face in a moment. Do not speak about it till you tell my father. He may help you, I cannot; so do not tell me anything."
Erica was glad to take her at her word. She kissed Frolich's hand, which lay on her knee, in token of thanks, and then inquired whether any Gammel cheese was made yet.
"No," said Frolich, inwardly sighing for news. "We have the whey, but not sweet cream enough till after this evening's milking. So you are just in time."
Erica was glad, as she could not otherwise have been sure of the demon having his due.
"There is your father," said Erica. "Now do go and gather more berries, Frolich. There are not half enough."