And just before Christmas she had had to settle a bill for coffee and sugar which, upon her word, she had not thought or known would come in until after the fair or at Midsummer! But he need not be afraid; she knew well enough where she could get the money, if she liked to tie on her bonnet and go out after it.
"So drink, Nikolai; it's as strong as a rock.

It isn't Christmas more than once a year, as they say in the country.

I believe you're afraid.
For your money?
Oh, no; never you fear! If your mother, Barbara, has promised anything, she'll keep it; so you may be easy.

So nice as Ludvig was to me the last time he was in here--it was only the afternoon of Little Christmas Eve.[4] Barbara needn't be at a loss for a few pence when I say my son wants them.

Oh, dear no! Now, Nikolai, don't look like that.