Only Else and Anders were present during the visit, and at first the conversation turned upon indifferent topics. But suddenly the shopkeeper asked about the approaching marriage, and then Else, with her usual frankness, told them of the difference which had arisen between herself and Anders as to the celebration.
Villing, who had hitherto been sitting with rather an absent air, nursing his tall hat on his knee, started up at these words and became very conversational.
He must confess—he said—that he did not understand Anders Jörgen's attitude in this affair. It appeared to him that such an important event ought to be celebrated in a suitable manner; that it was a downright point of honour for Anders Jörgen's house to make the day a high festival for all friends of the "People's Cause." He knew, he added, that the whole neighbourhood were anxious to take this opportunity of shewing their friendly feelings to the young couple; and he was convinced that the participation of the people would give to the solemnity the character of a true National Festival.
While he talked, Anders Jörgen shrank up like a snail in its shell, and glanced anxiously at his wife. When Villing noticed that his words were having an effect, he continued to talk. It was quite evident that he had all the arrangements mapped out in his head.
His advice was to have a large tent pitched in
