And the charcoal-burner in "The Peddler" by Ola Hansson?

In "The Peddler" by Ola Hansson, the peddler encounters acts of kindness and hospitality from various characters, including the crofter, the ironmaster, and the charcoal-burner. The peddler, who is used to a solitary and nomadic lifestyle, is deeply moved by these acts and interprets them in different ways.

1. The Crofter: The crofter offers the peddler a place to stay for the night, shares his food, and engages in conversation. The peddler interprets the crofter's kindness as a reflection of the simple and genuine nature of rural people. He sees the crofter as someone who is content with his modest lifestyle and values human connection. The peddler feels a sense of belonging and warmth in the crofter's home, which contrasts with the coldness and distance he experiences in his usual peddling life.

2. The Ironmaster: The ironmaster allows the peddler to stay in his luxurious mansion and treats him as an honored guest. The peddler is initially overwhelmed by the opulence and grandeur of the ironmaster's lifestyle, which is starkly different from his own. He interprets the ironmaster's hospitality as a display of wealth and power, but also as a gesture of curiosity towards the peddler's simple and humble existence. The peddler feels a sense of awe and fascination, realizing the stark contrast between his transient life and the stability and permanence represented by the ironmaster's position.

3. The Charcoal-Burner: The charcoal-burner invites the peddler to his humble hut and shares his meager food and shelter. The peddler interprets the charcoal-burner's actions as an embodiment of the hardships faced by those living on the fringes of society. He sees the charcoal-burner's kindness as a reflection of the compassion and resilience that can emerge from difficult circumstances. The peddler feels a sense of humility and gratitude, seeing the charcoal-burner as someone who understands the struggles of his own nomadic life.

Overall, the peddler interprets the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and the charcoal-burner as reflections of their respective lifestyles, values, and circumstances. These interactions challenge the peddler's own perspective and provide him with glimpses into different ways of living and expressing kindness.