The girl from Denmark had confided to Signe that she was going to join
her lover in America.

The girl tried to smile, and Signe continued: "What a contrast between
us. I am running away; you are going to meet someone--"

Crash! A blow struck the ship and shook it from end to end; and
presently the machinery came to a full stop. Then there was hurrying of
feet on deck, and they could hear the boatswain's shrill pipe, and the
captain giving commands. The steerage was soon a scene of terror. Those
who rushed up the stairs were met with fastened doors, and were
compelled to remain below. Women screamed and prayed and raved. Then the
steward came in, and informed them that there was no danger, and the
scene somewhat quieted down. On further inquiry it was learned that they
had collided with another ship. Some damage had been done forward, but
there was no further danger. However, very few slept that night, and
when morning broke, clear and beautiful, with glad hearts they rushed up
into the open air.

The second class was forward. Three of the passengers had been killed
and quite a number injured.

If Signe had not been so poor, and had not refused help from Hr.
Bogstad, she would have taken second class passage. But now, thank God
for being poor and--independent!

In another week they landed at New York, and each went her own way.
Signe Dahl took the first train for Chicago.