"At twelve to-night."
"Will you let me go out on my word of honor? I'll be back by six o'clock."
"Yes, but on your word of honor."
"Thank you. I will be here by six. I didn't think—but it's all right. Yes, the law, of course. I'll be here by six."
A loud knock startled Gunhild, and she ran to the door and opened it in nervous haste. Her eyes leaped out, and then she shrank back. "Oh, what is the matter?" she cried.
"Nothing," Milford answered, trying to smile.
"But you look old," she said. "You have scared me."
She took hold of his hand to lead him into the sitting-room. "No, not in there," he said. "I will tell you out here. I must not go in. I am afraid that I might hear that Norwegian hymn—out here—let me tell you! There was a time when you might have gone with me, but not now—not where I am going."
"Don't, dearest; don't. What are you saying? I will go with you anywhere. Yes, I will go with you. I dream of nothing but going with you—through the fields, across the ditches."