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Library / Literature & Fiction

Stories by Foreign Authors: Scandinavian

by Bjørnstjerne, 1832-1910 [Contributor] Bjørnson

Pages
about 126
Category
Literature & Fiction
Language
English
Reading time
2.3 h at 250 wpm
Start readingThe whole book, as cards or one word at a time. 77 min at 450 wpm in Read mode.

From the opening

The man whose story is here to be told was the wealthiest and most influential person in his parish; his name was Thord Overaas. He appeared in the priest's study one day, tall and earnest.

"I have gotten a son," said he, "and I wish to present him for baptism."

They were mentioned, and proved to be the best men and women of Thord's relations in the parish.

"I should like very much to have him baptized by himself," said he, finally.

"There is nothing else;" and the peasant twirled his cap, as though he were about to go.

Then the priest rose. "There is yet this, however," said he, and walking toward Thord, he took him by the hand and looked gravely into his eyes: "God grant that the child may become a blessing to you!"

One day sixteen years later, Thord stood once more in the priest's study.

"Really, you carry your age astonishingly well, Thord," said the priest; for he saw no change whatever in the man.

To this the priest said nothing, but after a while he asked: "What is your pleasure this evening?"

"I have come this evening about that son of mine who is to be confirmed to-morrow."

"I did not wish to pay the priest until I heard what number the boy would have when he takes his place in church to-morrow."

"So I have heard; and here are ten dollars for the priest."

"Is there anything else I can do for you?" inquired the priest, fixing his eyes on Thord.

Eight years more rolled by, and then one day a noise was heard outside of the priest's study, for many men were approaching, and at their head was Thord, who entered first.

"I am here to request that the banns may be published for my son; he is about to marry Karen Storliden, daughter of Gudmund, who stands here beside me."

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