She wondered at this, trying to think what it could mean. And then at last she understood. And, trembling with emotion, she began to weep.
So it was Sven Elversson found her.
At first she could make no answer to his anxious questioning. Then at last she sobbed out:
"Edward was here last night, and heard all we said. He saw that I loved you, and he left this for me."
"Love me!" cried Sven Elversson. "You love me?"
"Yes," said Sigrun. "And Edward saw it, but he is not angry with me. My love, he will not come to fetch me now. He tells me to stay here and be yours now."
* * * * * * *
Later in the day, Lotta Hedman came over to Hånger with a message from the Pastor, asking Sigrun how she wished matters now to be arranged.
And she had much to tell, and among other things this: that, on the previous night, she had seen the old homestead of Hånger for the first time rise up in all its ancient grandeur. She had seen the old woman sitting at the window, and the gatepost, and all the rest.
Then, suddenly, she saw the old woman lift her hands to Heaven, and her face shone with joy.