Jeppe—Yes, to be sure you have taken good care of your office; one can see that from your silver buttons,—what do you get a year?
Overseer—Fifty Rixdollars a year.
Jeppe (walks back and forth excitedly)—Half a hundred a year—yes, you shall immediately be hanged.
Overseer—It could hardly be less, gracious lord, for a whole year's hard work.
Jeppe—Just for that reason you shall be hanged, since you receive only fifty Rixdollars! You have money for a silver buttoned coat, for lace cuffs, a silk net for your hair, and still you get only fifty Rixdollars per year! Is it not plain that you steal from me, poor man, or where should it all come from?
Overseer (on his knees)—Ah, gracious lord, only spare me for the sake of my poor wife and little children.
Jeppe—Have you many children?
Overseer—I have seven children living, my lord!
Jeppe—Ha, ha, seven living children? Away, hang him, secretary!