There our friends again found themselves on smooth level roads, frequently obstructed by turnpike gates, where they were obliged to pay a toll of five or six shillings.

This was a fertile region, abounding in trees that looked like weeping willows, so heavily did the branches droop under their burden of fruit.
As they neared Drammen, which is situated upon an arm of Christiania Bay, the country became more hilly.

About noon they reached the city with its two interminable streets, lined with gayly painted houses, and its wharves where the countless rafts left but a meager space for the vessels that come here to load with the products of the Northland.
The carriage paused in front of the Scandinavian Hotel.

The proprietor, a dignified-looking personage, with a long, white beard, and a decidedly professional air, promptly appeared in the door-way of his establishment.
With that keenness of perception that characterizes inn-keepers in every country on the globe, he remarked: "I should not wonder if these gentlemen and this young lady would like breakfast." "Yes," replied Sylvius Hogg, "but let us have it as soon as possible." "It shall be served immediately." The repast was soon ready, and proved a most tempting one.

Mention should especially be made of a certain fish, stuffed with a savory herb, of which the professor partook with evident delight.
At half past one o'clock the carriage, to which fresh horses had been harnessed, was brought to the hotel door, and our friends started down the principal street of Drammen at a brisk trot.
As they passed a small and dingy dwelling that contrasted strongly with the gayly painted houses around it, Joel could not repress a sudden movement of loathing.
"There is Sandgoist ?" he exclaimed.
"So that is Sandgoist," remarked Sylvius Hogg.