change. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Hansen family at their auberge as they prepare for the night amidst a backdrop of bad weather. Hulda and her mother discuss waiting for Joël's return and the arrival of a letter from Ole, who is away fishing in Newfoundland. The family dynamics are established through their interactions, revealing Hulda's deep feelings for Ole, her anticipation of his return, and her mother’s more pragmatic concerns about the future. As the narrative progresses, a mysterious traveler arrives at the auberge, stirring unease with his odd demeanor and intrusive questions, setting the stage for potential conflicts and revelations that will unfold in the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)