He had always, as far as possible, avoided seeing Mother Kirstine, and had left his wife to represent him in that quarter.

He was afraid of the penetrating eyes which the old woman turned upon him, and had never forgotten the warning she had given him not to go near Elizabeth as long as he harboured a doubt against her in his heart.
It was with great deference that he now approached her bedside.
"Oh, it's you, Salve," she said, in a weak voice.

"It's not often I have a sight of you.

Elizabeth has been such a blessing to me; and Henrik is so quiet and good.

Where is Gjert?
Have you not brought him with you ?" And her eyes wandered in search of the boy.
"He is at home taking care of the house, aunt.