“True, but who would trust me—an unknown boy?” replied Hans sadly.
There was silence for a few minutes; then Olé said: “How much money do you require to pay for your father’s farm and set yourself up?”
“Two hundred dollars,” (The dollar is equal to about 4 shillings and 6 pence sterling) answered Hans.
“A goodly sum,” said Olé despondingly. “No, no, Hans, give her up, boy, give her up. It is the advice of an oldish man and a true friend.”
“It is the advice of an ass,” retorted Hans fiercely. “Go, my true friend,—when I want your advice I will ask it.”
The youth flung off from his friend, and came suddenly on Fred Temple, who rose and saluted him.
“This is a splendid city of yours, Hans,” said he. “You know my name, and you speak Norse,” exclaimed the youth in surprise.
“I know your name, Hans, because I heard your friend mention it, and I can speak a little Norse because I have studied it. I have come to stay in Old Norway for a few months, and would like to get a little information about it from some one. Are you a busy man just now?”
“No, not very busy,” said Hans, with a disconcerted look.
“Then, could you call on me this afternoon? I live in Madame Sontoom’s house.”