with me, I have an idea, or rather, I have a presentiment that
it is awaiting me on my return. Yes; comparative wealth, to
say nothing of happiness! In what way? That is my secret, my
dearest Hulda, and you will forgive me for having a secret
from you! It is the only one! Besides, I will tell you all
about it. When? Well, as soon as an opportunity offers--before
our marriage, if it should be delayed by some unforeseen
misfortune--afterward, if I return at the appointed time, and
you become my wife within a week after my arrival, as I trust
you will.

"A hundred fond kisses, my darling Hulda. Kiss Dame Hansen,
and Joel, too, for me. In fancy, I imprint another kiss upon
your brow, around which the shining crown of the brides of
the Telemark will cast a saint-like halo. Once more, farewell,
dearest Hulda, farewell!

"Your devoted lover,

"OLE KAMP."




CHAPTER II.


Dal is a modest hamlet consisting of but a few houses; some on
either side of a road that is little more than a bridle-path, others
scattered over the surrounding hills. But they all face the narrow