"Who's there?"

"It is I. Father knows it all, and he has
nearly killed me; and mother, too."

"Is that what you have come to tell me?"

"No, I would like to help you some. I have
been trying to see you these many days." And
he stepped close up to the boat.

"Thank you; I need no help."

"But, Brita," implored he, "I have sold my
gun and my dog, and everything I had, and this
is what I have got for it." He stretched out
his hand and reached her a red handkerchief
with something heavy bound up in a corner.
She took it mechanically, held it in her hand for
a moment, then flung it far out into the water.
A smile of profound contempt and pity passed
over her countenance.

"Farewell, Halvard," said she, calmly, and
pushed the boat into the water.

"But, Brita," cried he, in despair, "what
would you have me do?"