The uncle found out that neither Salo nor his sister had the slightest remembrance of their parents.

The boy's earliest memory went back to an estate in Holstein where they had lived with an elderly great-aunt, his grandmother's sister.

They were about five or six years old when the aunt died, after which they were sent to Hanover to their present abode.
Twice a year a relation of their great-aunt came to see them, but he was such a stiff, quiet gentleman that they could not enjoy his visits.

It was, however, this man who always decided what was to be done with them.
For the present they were to remain where they were till Salo had finished his studies.

After that the choice where to settle was left to them.
"But I know what I shall do first of all," Salo added with sparkling eyes.
Just then the old castle came in view.
"Oh, what a wonderful castle with great towers!" Salo exclaimed.