“Yes, but let me see for myself,” he replied; and they were obliged to
give him the books. Then all those who had “Very good,” or “Exceedingly
good,” came in front of the horse, and heard the beautiful story; while those
who had “Middling,” or “Tolerably good,” in their books, were obliged to
sit behind, and listen to the frightful tale. They trembled and cried, and
wanted to jump down from the horse, but they could not get free, for they
seemed fastened to the seat.
“Why, Death is a most splendid Luk-Oie,” said Hjalmar. “I am not in the
least afraid of him.”
“You need have no fear of him,” said Ole-Luk-Oie, “if you take care and
keep a good conduct book.”
“Now I call that very instructive,” murmured the great-grandfather’s
portrait. “It is useful sometimes to express an opinion;” so he was quite
satisfied.
These are some of the doings and sayings of Ole-Luk-Oie. I hope he may
visit you himself this evening, and relate some more.
