GRETA
His brother Nils sat at a rough, wooden table. Nils's arms were crossed in front of him, and his head rested upon them. How could he study with his head so low? Surely he was not asleep—not big Nils! Why, he was always far too busy studying his farm books or working on the estate to fall asleep in the daytime. What was the matter?
Erik stood in the center of the room with his legs apart and his snow cap pushed back upon his fair, curly hair.
"Ho, Nils!" he shouted.
The older brother did not stir. Erik went over and tapped him on the shoulder.
"I say, what's wrong?"
The young man raised his head. He had a strong, brave face, but just now there was a shadow over it.
"Have you heard the news?" he asked.
The little boy shook his head.