for poor when you are not so."

They both stole glances down after the boy to find out if he could
hear. The father looked sharply at his wife.

"You talk as though you were very wise."

She laughed.

"It is just the same as not thanking God that things have prospered
with us," said she, growing serious.

"We can surely thank Him without wearing silver buttons," observed the
father.

"Yes, but to let Oyvind go to the dance, dressed as he was yesterday,
is not thanking Him either."

"Oyvind is a houseman's son."

"That is no reason why he should not wear suitable clothes when we can
afford it."

"Talk about it so he can hear it himself!"

"He does not hear it; but I should like to have him do so," said she,
and looked bravely at her husband, who was gloomy, and laid down his
spoon to take his pipe.

"Such a poor houseman's place as we have!" said he.