No one took the trouble to examine the time-table in the station-house, which, though in Swedish, was perfectly intelligible so far as it related to hours and towns.
The tourists decided to improve the time they were obliged to wait by taking a walk about the country, examining Swedish houses and investigating Swedish agriculture. Doubtless this was a very interesting amusement; but at quarter past five, the party returned to the station. A long train was just departing in the direction of Gottenburg.
“What train’s that?” demanded Sanford.
“I don’t know,” replied Ole, with a look of alarm.
“Inquire, then,” added the excited coxswain.
The party hastened into the little station. It was the regular train for Gottenburg.
“But how’s that?” cried Sanford. “You said it left at half past five.”
“Yes; I looked at the time-table in Gottenburg, and it said half past five,” replied Ole. “Here is one, and I will look again.”
“Better wait till morning before you look again,” said Scott.
“Here it is; five—”