Part 3, Chapter XX Summary

In Chapter XX: The First Child to Leave the House, Klas Albert convinces Karl to buy an amazing new invention, and Karl's children are amazed as Klas assembles the kerosene lamp and shows them how to use it. The lamp brings much pleasure and satisfaction since it allows them to steal a few hours from the dark to spend at useful occupations.

As Karl yields his largest crop in 1868, his home parish suffers famine as a result of the worst crop failure in over one hundred years. Thinking about the difference between famine in the Old Country and the overabundance in America, Karl decides to send a load of wheat to the hungry in Ljuder, and when he discusses it with Klas Albert, Klas offers to handle the freight and delivery; then, he informs Karl that Marta has agreed...