There was a confidence in her tone, as if she had taken upon herself to call him to account for his absence.

It had hitherto been he always who had taken the initiative and been in a gracious humour or not, according as it pleased him.
"Gjert," he answered, rather shortly, "is at home in the house.

So you have been anxious about me--expected me ?" he added, in a peculiar tone, as if he found something to remark upon in this way of addressing him, but deferred comment for the present.
"Why, you know, goodman, that it can't be the same to me if you are lost out there at sea." "How is your aunt ?" he asked, abruptly.

"Is she seriously ill ?" "She can see you.

Come in with me, but step gently." Salve felt that he could not very well refuse, and followed her.