eight o'clock in the evening
The horses being already harnessed to the carriage , our friends immediately started in the direction of Bamble . In those days this was the only mode of travel in vogue throughout Central Norway , and through the Telemark in particular , and perhaps modern railroads have already caused the tourist to think with regret of the national kariol and Mr. Benett 's comfortable carriages . It is needless to say that Joel was well acquainted with this region , having traversed it repeatedly on his way from Dal to Bamble . It was eight o'clock in the evening when Sylvius Hogg and his protégées reached the latter village . They were not expected , but Farmer Helmboe received them none the less cordially on that account . Siegfrid tenderly embraced her friend , and the two young girls being left alone together for a few moments , they had an opportunity to discuss the subject that engrossed their every thought . `` Pray do not despair , my dearest Hulda , '' said Siegfrid ; `` I have not ceased to hope , by any means .