The father laid down his oars, Oyvind sprang past him and out of the boat, shook hands first with his mother, then with the school-master.

He laughed and laughed again; and, quite contrary to the custom of peasants, immediately began to pour out a flood of words about the examination, the journey, the superintendent's certificate, and good offers; he inquired about the crops and his acquaintances, all save one.

The father had paused to carry things up from the boat, but, wanting to hear, too, thought they might remain there for the present, and joined the others.

And so they walked up toward the house, Oyvind laughing and talking, the mother laughing, too, for she was utterly at a loss to know what to say.

The school-master moved slowly along at Oyvind's side, watching his old pupil closely; the father walked at a respectful distance.