There was a great deal said about what Oyvind would cost his parents in the next two years; about his not being able to come home the first Christmas, perhaps not the second either, and how hard it would be to be parted so long.

They spoke also of the love Oyvind should bear his parents who were willing to sacrifice themselves for their child's sake.

Oyvind sat like one who had tried sailing out into the world on his own responsibility, but had been wrecked and was now picked up by kind people.
Such is the feeling that humility gives, and with it comes much more.
As the great day drew near he dared call himself prepared, and also dared look forward with trustful resignation.

Whenever Marit's image would present itself, he cautiously thrust it aside, although he felt a pang in so doing.

He tried to gain practice in this, but never made any progress in strength; on the contrary, it was the pain that grew.
Therefore he was weary the last evening, when, after a long self-examination, he prayed that the Lord would not put him to the test in this matter.
The school-master came as the day was drawing to a close.