At the breakfast table, Greta watched the Baron's servant pour out his medicine. He took medicine before and after every meal, and Greta felt sorry for him. It was unpleasant to be ill.
ERIK AND NILS
Yet Greta could not help comparing the Baron to Nils, just as Erik had done last night. Nils was so very different—big and strong and fearless!
"The doctor says—" whined Karl's voice.
Always the doctor, thought Greta. He should marry a pill box or a bottle of castor oil!
"—I must have perfect quiet," continued Karl, "and so I'm afraid I shall have to leave Hanssonborg."
Fru Hansson gave a start. "But what has happened to Baron Karl?" she asked. "Has he been disturbed?"
The Baron balanced a herring on his fork and nervously blinked his watery eyes. "Yes," he answered. "In the middle of the night and by the most horrible noises!"
"Noises?" Fru Hansson looked astonished. "I heard nothing at all."