VII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Sacrifice and Family Loyalty

  Hulda and Joel's mutual support and their decision to protect their mother by not questioning her directly exemplify family loyalty.

• Greed and Exploitation

  Sandgoist's visit to appraise the property and his mysterious hold over Dame Hansen suggest exploitation and hidden financial threats.

• Hope and Resilience

  Joel encourages Hulda to remain hopeful about Ole's return and suggests practical steps to investigate, demonstrating resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Characters to notice

• Hulda Hansen

  Meets Joel at the ferry, shares her anxieties about Ole and Sandgoist, and decides to confide in Joel.

• Joel Hansen

  Returns home, comforts Hulda, proposes to investigate Sandgoist, and invites her to accompany him on a guiding trip.

• Dame Hansen

  Her mysterious behavior regarding Sandgoist is discussed; she remains silent and distressed.

• Monsieur Sandgoist

  His visit and appraisal of the inn are recounted; his connection to Dame Hansen is a source of concern.

• Ole Kamp

  His delayed return from Newfoundland is a central worry for Hulda and Joel.

Key passages

• “If you desire it, I will go to Bergen, and make inquiries there. I will call on Help Bros. Possibly they may have some news from Newfoundland.”

  Joel offers to travel to Bergen to ask Help Bros. for any information about Ole's ship.

  Joel's proactive attempt to find news about Ole.

• “I think, Joel, it would be best not to say anything to mother about it at present. You know her disposition, and it would only make her still more unhappy.”

  Hulda advises Joel to keep quiet about Sandgoist to avoid upsetting their mother further.

  Hulda's protective instinct toward Dame Hansen.

• “Come, come, little sister, it will not do to judge people by outward appearances.”

  Joel cautions Hulda against judging Sandgoist solely by his looks.

  Joel's more measured perspective on judging character.