But Erik did not know what had recently taken place at Hanssonborg. He did not know that Greta had at last agreed to let the Baron name their wedding day.
Fru Hansson was, on the contrary, delighted when she heard this. That same evening, they talked over plans for the wedding.
Greta was silent and finally the Baron said, "Greta has made no suggestions. I think she should be the one to set the happy day."
Greta wanted to cry out, "It will not be a happy day. I wish it would never come." But aloud she answered, "It makes no difference to me."
"Then let us be married on Midsummer Eve," said Baron Karl, and poor Greta felt a lump come into her throat.
Midsummer Eve is one of Sweden's most festive occasions, for then the sun is at its highest. Greta recalled the many happy times when she and Nils had danced around the Maypole with the peasants. For on that night, tenant and landlord celebrate together, and there is no difference in class.
A HOLIDAY SCENE IN THE PROVINCE OF DALECARLIA
Fru Hansson saw the tears come into Greta's eyes, and she quickly said, "Very well. It shall be as the Herr Baron wishes. The wedding shall take place on Midsummer Eve."
So the invitations were sent out.