‘The Rattrap’ Glossary & Para Wise Explanation Class 12 English CBSE

‘The Rattrap’ is the 4th lesson in Class 12th Book Flamingo. Here you get a comprehensive glossary and para wise explanation of the story text given in the book. Click here for more on this lesson ‘The Rattrap’.

Intext Expressions Explanations:

Notice these expressions in the text. Infer their meaning from the context.

Meanings of these expressions based on the context of the story:

“Keep body and soul together”:

• Meaning: To sustain one’s basic existence or survival. In the context, it suggests the man is struggling to meet his basic needs for food and sustenance.

“Hunger gleamed in his eyes”:

• Meaning: The man’s eyes reflected the intense feeling of hunger. It emphasizes the visible impact of hunger on his physical appearance.

“Plods along the road”:

• Meaning: To walk heavily and wearily. It describes the man’s slow and tired movement as he travels along the road.

“Unwonted joy”:

• Meaning: Unexpected or unusual joy. The man experiences joy that is not common for him, likely referring to the joy he finds in the thought about the world being a rattrap.

“Impenetrable prison”:

• Meaning: A prison that cannot be entered or escaped from. It describes the forest surrounding the man, emphasizing his feeling of being trapped and unable to find a way out.

“Nodded a haughty consent”:

• Meaning: Giving agreement in a proud or arrogant manner. The owner of the cottage agrees to let the man stay, but the pride in his consent is evident.

“Eased his way”:

• Meaning: Moved gradually or subtly. The man managed to enter the forge without causing disruption or drawing much attention.

“Fallen into a line of thought”:

• Meaning: Engaged in a sequence of connected thoughts. The man has started contemplating a particular idea, indicating a shift in his usual thinking.

“Things have gone downhill”:

• Meaning: The situation has worsened or deteriorated. In the context, it suggests a decline in the circumstances of the person being discussed.

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Para Wise Explanation & Glossary

1. ‘The Rattrap’ story is being given below. Go through as we proceed with the story and each time you have to give meanings of critical words and then explanation of the story text: Once upon a time there was a man who went around selling small rattraps of wire. He made them himself at odd moments, from the material he got by begging in the stores or at the big farms. But even so, the business was not especially profitable, so he had to resort to both begging and petty thievery to keep body and soul together. Even so, his clothes were in rags, his cheeks were sunken, and hunger gleamed in his eyes.

Glossary:

• Rattraps: Devices designed to catch or trap rats.
• Profitable: Yielding a financial gain or profit.
• Resort to: Turn to or adopt as a last resort.
• Petty thievery: Small-scale theft or stealing of insignificant items.
• Body and soul together: A figurative expression meaning to maintain one’s physical and spiritual well-being.
• Rags: Tattered or worn-out clothing.

Explanation of the story text:

2. The story begins by introducing a man who earns a living by selling small rattraps made of wire. He crafts these traps during odd moments, using materials acquired through begging at stores or large farms. Despite his efforts, this business is not particularly lucrative, forcing him to resort to both begging and engaging in minor theft to sustain himself. As a result, his appearance reflects the hardships he faces – his clothes are in tatters, his cheeks are sunken, and hunger is evident in his eyes. This sets the stage for a narrative that likely explores the challenges and struggles faced by the protagonist as he tries to make a living through unconventional means. No one can imagine how sad and monotonous life can appear to such a vagabond, who plods along the road, left to his own meditations. But one day this man had fallen into a line of thought, which really seemed to him entertaining. He had naturally been thinking of his rattraps when suddenly he was struck by the idea that the whole world about him — the whole world with its lands and seas, its cities and villages — was nothing but a big rattrap. It had never existed for any other purpose than to set baits for people. It offered riches and joys, shelter and food, heat and clothing, exactly as the rattrap offered cheese and pork, and as soon as anyone let himself be tempted to touch the bait, it closed in on him, and then everything came to an end.

Glossary:

• Vagabond: A person who wanders from place to place without a home or job.
• Plods: Walks heavily or slowly.
• Meditations: Deep thoughts or contemplation.
• Rattraps: Devices designed to catch or trap rats.
• Baits: Tempting offerings used to lure or trap.

Explanation of the story text:

In this part of the story, the narrative delves into the inner thoughts and perceptions of the vagabond. The author describes how the vagabond’s life is both sad and monotonous as he walks along the road, immersed in his own contemplations. However, one day, the man experiences a shift in his thinking. He starts to view the entire world, with its lands, seas, cities, and villages, as a colossal rattrap. In his perspective, the world exists solely to set baits for people, much like the rattraps he crafts to capture rats.

The analogy is that the world offers various temptations—riches, joys, shelter, food, heat, and clothing—just like the rattrap provides cheese and pork as bait. The implication is that individuals are lured by these offerings, and once they succumb to the temptations, the metaphorical rattrap of the world closes in on them, bringing their pursuits and experiences to an end. This perspective reflects a somewhat cynical view of the world, portraying it as a trap that ensnares those who are enticed by its offerings.

3. The world had, of course, never been very kind to him, so it gave him unwonted joy to think ill of it in this way. It became a cherished pastime of his, during many dreary ploddings, to think of people he knew who had let themselves be caught in the dangerous snare, and of others who were still circling around the bait. One dark evening as he was trudging along the road he caught sight of a little gray cottage by the roadside, and he knocked on the door to ask shelter for the night. Nor was he refused. Instead of the sour faces which ordinarily met him, the owner, who was an old man without wife or child, was happy to get someone to talk to in his loneliness. Immediately he put the porridge pot on the fire and gave him supper; then he carved off such a big slice from his tobacco roll that it was enough both for the stranger’s pipe and his own. Finally he got out an old pack of cards and played ‘mjolis’ with his guest until bedtime.

• Unwonted: Not customary or usual; unusual.
• Cherished pastime: An activity that is fondly and carefully cultivated or indulged in.
• Dreary: Dull, bleak, and depressing.
• Snare: A trap or a device for catching animals.
• Circling around the bait: Figuratively, people who are still considering or being tempted by the offerings or temptations.
• Trudging: Walking slowly and with effort.
• Porridge: A dish made by boiling grains or legumes in milk or water, often eaten as a breakfast food.
• Mjolis: Possibly a term related to a card game or a form of entertainment.

In this part of the story, the narrative describes how the vagabond finds joy in thinking negatively about the world, given that it has not been kind to him. He takes pleasure in considering those who have fallen into the metaphorical trap of the world and those who are still tempted by its offerings.

One evening, as he walks along the road, he comes across a small gray cottage and decides to seek shelter for the night. Surprisingly, he is welcomed by the owner, an old man without a wife or child. Unlike the usual sour faces he encounters, the old man is happy to have someone to talk to in his loneliness. The owner of the cottage prepares supper, shares his tobacco, and engages in a card game called ‘mjolis’ with the vagabond until bedtime. This encounter contrasts with the vagabond’s usual experiences, providing a moment of warmth and connection in an otherwise harsh and unfriendly world.

4. The old man was just as generous with his confidences as with his porridge and tobacco. The guest was informed at once that in his days of prosperity his host had been a crofter at Ramsjo Ironworks and had worked on the land. Now that he was no longer able to do day labour, it was his cow which supported him. Yes, that bossy was extraordinary. She could give milk for the creamery every day, and last month he had received all of thirty kronor in payment. The stranger must have seemed incredulous, for the old man got up and went to the window, took down a leather pouch which hung on a nail in the very window frame, and picked out three wrinkled ten-kronor bills. These he held up before the eyes of his guest, nodding knowingly, and then stuffed them back into the pouch.

Generous with his confidences: The old man is open and willing to share personal information or details about his life.

• Crofter: A person who rents and works on a small farm, especially in Scotland.
• Ramsjo Ironworks: Presumably a location where ironwork activities take place.
• Day labour: Physical work done for a day’s wage, often in agricultural or manual labor.
• Bossy: A term used colloquially for a cow.
• Creamery: A place where milk is processed into butter and cheese.
• Kronor: The currency of Sweden.
• Incredulous: Unwilling or unable to believe something.
• Leather pouch: A small bag made of leather.

In this part of the story, the narrative reveals that the old man is not only generous with food and tobacco but also with sharing details about his life. The old man informs the vagabond that he used to be a crofter at Ramsjo Ironworks, working on the land. Due to his inability to continue day labor, he now relies on his cow for support. The cow, referred to as “bossy,” is described as extraordinary because it can provide milk for the creamery every day. The old man proudly mentions that he received a significant payment of thirty kronor for the milk last month.

To convince the stranger of his prosperity, the old man retrieves a leather pouch hanging by the window, takes out three ten-kronor bills, and shows them to the guest. This action is meant to validate his claims and perhaps to dispel any skepticism the stranger may have had about the old man’s financial situation. The nodding knowingly suggests the old man’s confidence in the truth of his words.

5. The next day both men got up in good season. The crofter was in a hurry to milk his cow, and the other man probably thought he should not stay in bed when the head of the house had gotten up. They left the cottage at the same time. The crofter locked the door and put the key in his pocket. The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you, and thereupon each went his own way. But half an hour later the rattrap peddler stood again before the door. He did not try to get in, however. He only went up to the window, smashed a pane, stuck in his hand, and got hold of the pouch with the thirty kronor. He took the money and thrust it into his own pocket. Then he hung the leather pouch very carefully back in its place and went away.

• Good season: Early in the morning or at an appropriate time.
• Crofter: A person who rents and works on a small farm, especially in Scotland.
• Head of the house: The person in charge or the owner of the house.
• Rattrap peddler: The man who sells rattraps.

In this part of the story, both the crofter and the rattrap peddler get up early. The crofter is in a hurry to milk his cow, and the rattrap peddler, respecting the household’s schedule, decides to also rise early. They leave the cottage simultaneously, with the crofter locking the door and taking the key. The rattrap peddler expresses his gratitude and bids farewell before each going their separate ways.

However, shortly after, the rattrap peddler returns to the cottage. Instead of attempting to enter, he goes to the window, breaks a pane, reaches in, and takes hold of the pouch containing thirty kronor. He steals the money, puts it in his own pocket, carefully returns the leather pouch to its place, and leaves. This turn of events reveals a darker side to the rattrap peddler, showing that despite the hospitality he received, he resorts to theft, betraying the trust of the old man who had opened his home to him. The story seems to explore themes of deception and opportunism.

6. As he walked along with the money in his pocket he felt quite pleased with his smartness. He realised, of course, that at first he dared not continue on the public highway, but must turn off the road, into the woods. During the first hours this caused him no difficulty. Later in the day it became worse, for it was a big and confusing forest which he had gotten into. He tried, to be sure, to walk in a definite direction, but the paths twisted back and forth so strangely! He walked and walked without coming to the end of the wood, and finally he realised that he had only been walking around in the same part of the forest. All at once he recalled his thoughts about the world and the rattrap. Now his own turn had come. He had let himself be fooled by a bait and had been caught. The whole forest, with its trunks and branches, its thickets and fallen logs, closed in upon him like an impenetrable prison from which he could never escape.

• Smartness: Cleverness or shrewdness.
• Dared not: Was not willing or brave enough to.
• Public highway: Main or public road.
• Confusing forest: A large forest that is difficult to navigate.
• Paths twisted back and forth: The trails or paths in the forest were winding and confusing.
• Definite direction: A clear and specific path or route.
• Thickets: Dense, tangled bushes or undergrowth.
• Impenetrable: Impossible to pass through or enter.

In this part of the story, the rattrap peddler, now with the stolen money in his pocket, initially feels pleased with his cleverness. However, he realizes the need to avoid the public highway to evade detection. He decides to turn off the road and enter the woods. Initially, navigating the forest doesn’t pose much difficulty, but as time passes, the forest becomes larger and more confusing. The paths wind back and forth, making it challenging for him to maintain a definite direction.

Eventually, he becomes disoriented, realizing that he has been walking in circles within the same part of the forest. This situation triggers a reflection on his earlier thoughts about the world being a rattrap. Now, he sees himself as the one who has been fooled by a bait and caught. The dense forest surrounds him like an impenetrable prison, emphasizing his predicament and the consequences of his actions. This development in the story suggests a sense of poetic justice or irony, as the rattrap peddler finds himself ensnared in the very trap he had metaphorically described earlier.

7. It was late in December. Darkness was already descending over the forest. This increased the danger, and increased also his gloom and despair. Finally he saw no way out, and he sank down on the ground, tired to death, thinking that his last moment had come. But just as he laid his head on the ground, he heard a sound—a hard regular thumping. There was no doubt as to what that was. He raised himself. ‘‘Those are the hammer strokes from an iron mill’’, he thought. ‘‘There must be people near by’’. He summoned all his strength, got up, and staggered in the direction of the sound. The Ramsjo Ironworks, which are now closed down, were, not so long ago, a large plant, with smelter, rolling mill, and forge. In the summertime long lines of heavily loaded barges and scows slid down the canal, which led to a large inland lake, and in the wintertime the roads near the mill were black from all the coal dust which sifted down from the big charcoal crates.

• Descending: Moving downward or falling.
• Gloom: Darkness or a state of being in low spirits.
• Despair: A state of complete hopelessness.
• Thumping: A repetitive, dull sound, like the beating of a heavy object.
• Iron mill: A facility for processing iron.
• Hammer strokes: The rhythmic sounds made by a hammer striking a surface.
• Smelter: A place where metal is extracted from its ore by smelting.
• Rolling mill: A facility where metal is rolled or shaped.
• Forge: A workshop for shaping and working with metals.
• Barges and scows: Flat-bottomed boats used for transporting goods on canals or rivers.
• Canal: An artificial waterway for navigation or irrigation.
• Inland lake: A lake located away from the coast or not connected to the sea.
• Coal dust: Fine particles of coal.
• Charcoal crates: Containers for transporting charcoal.

In this part of the story, it’s late December, and darkness is falling over the forest, intensifying the danger and the protagonist’s feelings of gloom and despair. Exhausted, he believes there’s no way out and resigns himself to what he thinks might be his last moments. However, he hears a distinctive sound—hard, regular thumping—which he identifies as the hammer strokes from an iron mill. This realization gives him hope, and he musters his strength to follow the sound, hoping to find people nearby.

The story introduces the Ramsjo Ironworks, a once-large plant with a smelter, rolling mill, and forge. The description highlights the industrial activity of the ironworks, including the transportation of goods by barges and scows on a canal in the summer and the presence of coal dust from large charcoal crates in the winter. This setting becomes a crucial turning point for the protagonist, offering a potential escape from the trap he found himself in.

8. During one of the long dark evenings just before Christmas, the master smith and his helper sat in the dark forge near the furnace waiting for the pig iron, which had been put in the fire, to be ready to put on the anvil. Every now and then one of them got up to stir the glowing mass with a long iron bar, returning in a few moments, dripping with perspiration, though, as was the custom, he wore nothing but a long shirt and a pair of wooden shoes. All the time there were many sounds to be heard in the forge. The big bellows groaned and the burning coal cracked. The fire boy shovelled charcoal into the maw of the furnace with a great deal of clatter. Outside roared the waterfall, and a sharp north wind whipped the rain against the brick-tiled roof.

• Master smith: A highly skilled blacksmith, typically with expertise in metalworking.
• Forge: A workshop where metals are heated and shaped.
• Furnace: A structure or apparatus in which heat is produced.
• Pig iron: Iron in the form of blocks or bars, typically obtained from a blast furnace.
• Anvil: A heavy iron block with a flat top on which heated metal is shaped by hammering.
• Glowing mass: A hot, incandescent substance.
• Perspiration: Sweat.
• Long shirt: A garment extending to a considerable length, covering the body.
• Wooden shoes: Shoes made of wood.
• Bellows: A device for producing a strong current of air, used to intensify a fire.
• Coal: A combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock.
• Fire boy: Someone responsible for managing the fire, often adding fuel or adjusting airflow.
• Charcoal: A black, porous form of carbon obtained by heating wood or other organic matter in the absence of air.
• Maw of the furnace: The opening or mouth of the furnace.
• Waterfall: A place where water flows over a vertical drop in the course of a stream or river.
• North wind: A wind blowing from the north.
• Brick-tiled roof: A roof covered with tiles made of baked clay.

In this part of the story, the scene is set in the dark forge just before Christmas, where the master smith and his helper are waiting for the pig iron, placed in the fire, to be ready for shaping on the anvil. The master smith and his helper work in a hot and demanding environment, periodically stirring the glowing mass with an iron bar. Despite the intense heat, it’s noted that they wear only a long shirt and wooden shoes, a customary attire for such work.

The forge is filled with sounds—groaning bellows, cracking burning coal, and the clatter of the fire boy shoveling charcoal into the furnace. The outside environment is described with the roaring waterfall and a sharp north wind whipping rain against the brick-tiled roof. This vivid description creates a sensory atmosphere, immersing the reader in the industrial and natural elements of the setting.

9. It was probably on account of all this noise that the blacksmith did not notice that a man had opened the gate and entered the forge, until he stood close up to the furnace. Surely it was nothing unusual for poor vagabonds without any better shelter for the night to be attracted to the forge by the glow of light which escaped through the sooty panes, and to come in to warm themselves in front of the fire. The blacksmiths glanced only casually and indifferently at the intruder. He looked the way people of his type usually did, with a long beard, dirty, ragged, and with a bunch of rattraps dangling on his chest.

• Intruder: Someone who enters a place without permission or unlawfully.
• Forge: A workshop where metals are heated and shaped.
• Furnace: A structure or apparatus in which heat is produced.
• Vagabonds: People who wander from place to place without a home or job.
• Sooty panes: Windows covered with soot or carbon residue.
• Glance casually: To look briefly or without particular attention.
• Indifferently: Without much interest or concern.
• Long beard: Facial hair that extends to a considerable length.
• Dirty and ragged: Unclean and wearing torn or shabby clothing.
• Bunch of rattraps: A group of traps designed to catch or trap rats.

In this part of the story, the blacksmiths are so absorbed in their work and the noise of the forge that they don’t initially notice a man entering until he is close to the furnace. The narrative suggests that it’s not uncommon for poor vagabonds, lacking better shelter, to be drawn to the forge by the warmth and light escaping through the sooty panes. The blacksmiths, considering it usual for such individuals to seek warmth, only give a casual and indifferent glance to the intruder.

The description of the man aligns with the stereotypical appearance of a vagabond – long beard, dirty, ragged clothing, and carrying a bunch of rattraps. This sets the stage for a potential interaction between the stranger and the blacksmiths in the forge.

10. He asked permission to stay, and the master blacksmith nodded a haughty consent without honouring him with a single word. The tramp did not say anything, either. He had not come there to talk but only to warm himself and sleep. In those days the Ramsjo iron mill was owned by a very prominent ironmaster, whose greatest ambition was to ship out good iron to the market. He watched both night and day to see that the work was done as well as possible, and at this very moment he came into the forge on one of his nightly rounds of inspection. Naturally the first thing he saw was the tall ragamuffin who had eased his way so close to the furnace that steam rose from his wet rags. The ironmaster did not follow the example of the blacksmiths, who had hardly deigned to look at the stranger. He walked close up to him, looked him over very carefully, then tore off his slouch hat to get a better view of his face. ‘‘But of course it is you, Nils Olof!’’ he said. “How you do look!”

• Haughty consent: Granting permission in a proud or disdainful manner.
• Tramp: A person who travels on foot, typically doing odd jobs for a living.
• Nightly rounds of inspection: Regular checks performed during the night to ensure everything is in order.
• Ragamuffin: A person, especially a child, in ragged clothing.
• Steam rose from his wet rags: The heat from the furnace caused moisture to evaporate from the tramp’s wet and ragged clothing.
• Ironmaster: A person who owns or manages an ironworks.
• Slouch hat: A soft, broad-brimmed hat with a drooping brim.

In this part of the story, the tramp, seeking permission to stay in the forge, is met with a haughty consent from the master blacksmith, who nods without uttering a word. The tramp, respecting the unspoken communication, remains silent, having come to the forge for warmth and rest.

The Ramsjo iron mill is owned by a prominent ironmaster who is vigilant about the quality of work. During one of his nightly rounds, he enters the forge and immediately notices the ragged figure near the furnace. Unlike the blacksmiths who barely acknowledged the stranger, the ironmaster approaches him with curiosity, carefully inspecting him and even removing his hat to get a better view of his face. The ironmaster recognizes the tramp, addressing him as Nils Olof and remarking on his appearance. This unexpected recognition sets the stage for further developments in the story, potentially shedding light on the tramp’s background and connection to the ironmaster.

11. The man with the rattraps had never before seen the ironmaster at Ramsjo and did not even know what his name was. But it occurred to him that if the fine gentleman thought he was an old acquaintance, he might perhaps throw him a couple of kronor. Therefore he did not want to undeceive him all at once. ‘‘Yes, God knows things have gone downhill with me’’, he said. ‘‘You should not have resigned from the regiment’’, said the ironmaster. ‘‘That was the mistake. If only I had still been in the service at the time, it never would have happened. Well, now of course you will come home with me.’’ To go along up to the manor house and be received by the owner like an old regimental comrade — that, however, did not please the tramp. ‘‘No, I couldn’t think of it!’’ he said, looking quite alarmed.

• Kronor: The currency of Sweden.
• Fine gentleman: A term often used to describe someone who is refined, well-dressed, or of higher social standing.
• Undeceive: To correct a false impression or misconception.
• God knows: An expression used to convey a sense of uncertainty or hardship.
• Regiment: A military unit.
• Manor house: A large country house with lands.
• Regimental comrade: A fellow member of the same military unit.

In this part of the story, the tramp, who has never seen the ironmaster before and doesn’t know his name, contemplates the possibility of receiving money from the ironmaster if he allows the misconception of being an old acquaintance to continue. Rather than immediately correcting the ironmaster’s assumption, the tramp decides to play along.

He responds by suggesting that things have gone downhill for him and implies a connection to the military by mentioning resigning from the regiment. The ironmaster, believing the tramp to be an old comrade, expresses regret about the tramp’s departure from the military, stating that it wouldn’t have happened if he (the ironmaster) had still been in service. The ironmaster then invites the tramp to come home with him.

However, the tramp, perhaps not wanting to be entangled in a situation he did not anticipate, declines the invitation with an alarmed expression, stating that he couldn’t think of going to the manor house. This refusal hints at a reluctance or discomfort on the part of the tramp, suggesting that he prefers to maintain his current status rather than being drawn into a different social setting.

12. He thought of the thirty kronor. To go up to the manor house would be like throwing himself voluntarily into the lion’s den. He only wanted a chance to sleep here in the forge and then sneak away as inconspicuously as possible. The ironmaster assumed that he felt embarrassed because of his miserable clothing. ‘‘Please don’t think that I have such a fine home that you cannot show yourself there’’, He said… ‘‘Elizabeth is dead, as you may already have heard. My boys are abroad, and there is no one at home except my oldest daughter and myself. We were just saying that it was too bad we didn’t have any company for Christmas. Now come along with me and help us make the Christmas food disappear a little faster.”

• Lion’s den: A place or situation fraught with danger or hostile conditions.
• Inconspicuously: In a way that attracts little attention or notice.
• Miserable clothing: Clothing in poor or shabby condition.
• Elizabeth: Presumably a person known to the ironmaster, who is mentioned to have passed away.
• Abroad: In this context, it likely means away from home or in another country.
• Oldest daughter: The ironmaster’s eldest female child.

In this part of the story, the tramp contemplates the proposition of going to the manor house, and he hesitates, considering it akin to voluntarily entering a difficult or dangerous situation, symbolized by the expression “lion’s den.” His primary goal is to use the forge as a temporary shelter for sleeping and then quietly depart without drawing attention.

The ironmaster, interpreting the tramp’s hesitation as embarrassment due to his shabby clothing, reassures him that his home is not so grand that the tramp cannot show himself there. The ironmaster shares personal details, mentioning the death of someone named Elizabeth, the absence of his boys who are abroad, and the fact that only his oldest daughter and himself are at home. He then invites the tramp to join them at the manor house, expressing a desire for company during Christmas and even humorously suggesting that the tramp could help them consume the Christmas food more quickly.

This unexpected invitation adds a layer of complexity to the tramp’s situation, as he is faced with a choice between maintaining his solitude and potentially benefiting from the ironmaster’s hospitality during the Christmas season.

13. But the stranger said no, and no, and again no, and the ironmaster saw that he must give in. ‘‘It looks as though Captain von Stahle preferred to stay with you tonight, Stjernstrom’’, he said to the master blacksmith, and turned on his heel. But he laughed to himself as he went away, and the blacksmith, who knew him, understood very well that he had not said his last word.

• Captain von Stahle: A title suggesting a military background, specifically a captain with the surname von Stahle.
• Stjernstrom: Presumably, the master blacksmith’s name.
• Turned on his heel: A figurative expression indicating that someone abruptly turned around and left.
• Had not said his last word: Implies that the ironmaster has more to say or intends to revisit the matter.

In this part of the story, the tramp (referred to as Captain von Stahle) firmly rejects the ironmaster’s invitation, repeatedly saying no. The ironmaster, realizing that the tramp is adamant about not going to the manor house, concedes. He then addresses the master blacksmith, Stjernstrom, suggesting that Captain von Stahle prefers to stay at the forge for the night.

As the ironmaster departs, he laughs to himself, indicating that he finds the situation amusing or perhaps has a plan in mind. The master blacksmith, familiar with the ironmaster’s ways, understands that the ironmaster has not said his last word. This suggests that the ironmaster may have more to unfold or intends to revisit the matter of inviting Captain von Stahle to the manor house. The laughter and the implication of unfinished business add an element of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.

14. It was not more than half an hour before they heard the sound of carriage wheels outside the forge, and a new guest came in, but this time it was not the ironmaster. He had sent his daughter, apparently hoping that she would have better powers of persuasion than he himself. She entered, followed by a valet, carrying on his arm a big fur coat. She was not at all pretty, but seemed modest and quite shy. In the forge everything was just as it had been earlier in the evening. The master blacksmith and his apprentice still sat on their bench, and iron and charcoal still glowed in the furnace. The stranger had stretched himself out on the floor and lay with a piece of pig iron under his head and his hat pulled down over his eyes. As soon as the young girl caught sight of him, she went up and lifted his hat. The man was evidently used to sleeping with one eye open. He jumped up abruptly and seemed to be quite frightened.

• Carriage wheels: The wheels of a horse-drawn carriage.
• Valet: A personal servant, often responsible for the care of clothing and personal items.
• Big fur coat: A large coat made of fur, likely for warmth.
• Modest: Having a humble or unassuming appearance.
• Shy: Timid or reserved.
• Apprentice: A person learning a trade from a skilled employer.
• Pig iron: Iron in the form of blocks or bars, typically obtained from a blast furnace.

In this part of the story, the ironmaster’s daughter arrives at the forge, accompanied by a valet carrying a big fur coat. The ironmaster, having likely failed to convince the tramp earlier, has now sent his daughter, possibly thinking that her persuasiveness might succeed where his did not.

The atmosphere in the forge remains unchanged, with the master blacksmith, his apprentice, and the tramp in their respective positions. The tramp, lying on the floor with a piece of pig iron under his head and his hat covering his eyes, appears to be asleep. When the daughter notices him, she lifts his hat, and he abruptly wakes up, seemingly startled and frightened. The description of the tramp’s reaction adds an element of surprise and tension to the scene, leaving the reader curious about the unfolding interaction between the daughter and the tramp.

15. ‘‘My name is Edla Willmansson,’’ said the young girl. ‘‘My father came home and said that you wanted to sleep here in the forge tonight, and then I asked permission to come and bring you home to us. I am so sorry, Captain, that you are having such a hard time.’’ She looked at him compassionately, with her heavy eyes, and then she noticed that the man was afraid. ‘‘Either he has stolen something or else he has escaped from, jail’’, she thought, and added quickly, “You may be sure, Captain, that you will be allowed to leave us just as freely as you came. Only please stay with us over Christmas Eve.’’ She said this in such a friendly manner that the rattrap peddler must have felt confidence in her. ‘‘It would never have occurred to me that you would bother with me yourself, miss,’’ he said. ‘’I will come at once.’’

• Edla Willmansson: The name of the ironmaster’s daughter.
• Compassionately: With sympathy or understanding.
• Heavy eyes: Eyes that convey a sense of seriousness or deep emotion.
• Escaped from jail: The suspicion that the tramp might be a fugitive or a criminal who has run away from prison.
• Confidence in her: Trust or reliance in her sincerity.
• Bother with me: Take the trouble or make an effort for his sake.

In this part of the story, the ironmaster’s daughter introduces herself as Edla Willmansson. She explains that her father informed her about the tramp’s desire to sleep in the forge, and she sought permission to bring him home. Edla expresses sympathy for the tramp’s apparent difficulties and apologizes for his tough situation.

As she looks at him with compassion, Edla notices that the tramp seems afraid. She speculates about possible reasons for his fear, considering the possibilities that he may have stolen something or escaped from jail. Despite these suspicions, Edla reassures him that he is free to leave just as freely as he came, but she kindly invites him to stay with them over Christmas Eve.

The tramp, sensing Edla’s friendliness, feels confident in her sincerity. He expresses gratitude and agrees to accompany her, stating that he didn’t expect her personal involvement in his situation. This turn of events marks a shift in the tramp’s circumstances, as he transitions from the forge to the hospitality of the ironmaster’s home, setting the stage for further developments in the story.

16. He accepted the fur coat, which the valet handed him with a deep bow, threw it over his rags, and followed the young lady out to the carriage, without granting the astonished blacksmiths so much as a glance. But while he was riding up to the manor house he had evil forebodings. ‘‘Why the devil did I take that fellow’s money?’’ he thought. ‘‘Now I am sitting in the trap and will never get out of it.’’ The next day was Christmas Eve, and when the ironmaster came into the dining room for breakfast he probably thought with satisfaction of his old regimental comrade whom he had run across so unexpectedly.

• Deep bow: A respectful and formal gesture, often involving lowering the upper part of the body.
• Rags: Tattered or worn-out clothing.
• Carriage: A vehicle with four wheels drawn by horses.
• Astonished blacksmiths: The master blacksmith and his apprentice, who are likely surprised by the turn of events.
• Evil forebodings: Negative or ominous feelings about future events.
• Trap: A situation perceived as difficult to escape.
• Christmas Eve: The evening before Christmas Day, a significant holiday in many cultures.

In this part of the story, the tramp, now accompanied by Edla and wearing the fur coat provided by the valet, leaves the forge without acknowledging the astonished blacksmiths. While riding to the manor house, the tramp begins to have negative thoughts and regrets about accepting money from the ironmaster. He feels like he’s fallen into a trap and worries about the consequences.

As Christmas Eve arrives, the ironmaster, likely satisfied with the unexpected reunion with his old regimental comrade, looks forward to the holiday. This sets the stage for further developments, hinting at the potential impact of the tramp’s presence in the ironmaster’s home during the Christmas festivities. The tramp’s internal conflict and the ironmaster’s satisfaction create a sense of anticipation and uncertainty in the narrative.

17. “First of all we must see to it that he gets a little flesh on his bones,” he said to his daughter, who was busy at the table. “And then we must see that he gets something else to do than to run around the country selling rattraps.” “It is queer that things have gone downhill with him as badly as that,” said the daughter. “Last night I did not think there was anything about him to show that he had once been an educated man.” “You must have patience, my little girl,” said the father. “As soon as he gets clean and dressed up, you will see something different. Last night he was naturally embarrassed. The tramp manners will fall away from him with the tramp clothes.”

• Get a little flesh on his bones: To help someone gain weight or become healthier.
• Busy at the table: Engaged in activities related to preparing or setting the table.
• Run around the country: Travel extensively or move from place to place.
• Educated man: Implies that the tramp may have had a formal education or a higher social standing at some point.
• Tramp manners: Behaviors associated with a vagabond or someone living a transient lifestyle.

In this part of the story, the ironmaster expresses his concern for the tramp’s well-being and suggests that the first priority is to ensure he gains some weight. He also emphasizes the need to find the tramp a more meaningful occupation than selling rattraps.

Edla, the daughter, reflects on the tramp’s situation, mentioning that it’s surprising how much things have deteriorated for him. She recalls her initial impression that there was nothing about him the previous night to indicate that he had once been an educated man.

The ironmaster reassures his daughter, suggesting that the tramp’s true nature may become apparent once he is clean and dressed appropriately. He believes that the tramp’s current embarrassment and tramp-like behavior will diminish once he sheds the associated clothing. This anticipation sets the stage for the transformation of the tramp’s character and the potential impact of the ironmaster’s hospitality on his life.

18. Just as he said this the door opened and the stranger entered. Yes, now he was truly clean and well dressed. The valet had bathed him, cut his hair, and shaved him. Moreover he was dressed in a good-looking suit of clothes which belonged to the ironmaster. He wore a white shirt and a starched collar and whole shoes. But although his guest was now so well groomed, the ironmaster did not seem pleased. He looked at him with puckered brow, and it was easy to understand that when he had seen the strange fellow in the uncertain reflection from the furnace he might have made a mistake, but that now, when he stood there in broad daylight, it was impossible to mistake him for an old acquaintance. “What does this mean?” he thundered.

• Clean and well dressed: Refers to someone who is tidy, having bathed and wearing neat clothing.
• Valet: A personal servant, often responsible for personal grooming and other tasks.
• Puckered brow: A facial expression characterized by wrinkles or furrows on the forehead, often indicating confusion, displeasure, or deep thought.
• Uncertain reflection from the furnace: Suggests that the ironmaster might have seen the tramp in a distorted or unclear manner in the dim light of the forge.
• Broad daylight: Refers to daytime, when natural sunlight illuminates the surroundings.

In this part of the story, the tramp, having undergone a transformation through grooming and new clothing provided by the ironmaster, enters the room. He is now clean, with a haircut and a shaved face, wearing a good-looking suit of clothes that belonged to the ironmaster. The description emphasizes the improvement in his appearance, including a white shirt, a starched collar, and whole shoes.

Despite the tramp’s enhanced appearance, the ironmaster does not seem pleased. He scrutinizes the tramp with a furrowed brow, indicating his dissatisfaction. The narrative suggests that the ironmaster might have made a mistake in recognizing the tramp as an old acquaintance when he saw him in the uncertain reflection from the furnace the night before. In the clear light of day, it becomes apparent that the tramp is not the person the ironmaster initially thought him to be.

The ironmaster, now realizing the error, expresses his confusion and dissatisfaction, thundering with the question, “What does this mean?” This marks a turning point in the story, introducing a new layer of tension and raising questions about the tramp’s true identity and the circumstances that led to his presence in the ironmaster’s home.

19. The stranger made no attempt to dissimulate. He saw at once that the splendour had come to an end. “It is not my fault, sir,” he said. “I never pretended to be anything but a poor trader, and I pleaded and begged to be allowed to stay in the forge. But no harm has been done. At worst I can put on my rags again and go away”. “Well,” said the ironmaster, hesitating a little, “it was not quite honest, either. You must admit that, and I should not be surprised if the sheriff would like to have something to say in the matter.” The tramp took a step forward and struck the table with his fist. “Now I am going to tell you, Mr Ironmaster, how things are,” he said. “This whole world is nothing but a big rattrap. All the good things that are offered to you are nothing but cheese rinds and bits of pork, set out to drag a poor fellow into trouble. And if the sheriff comes now and locks me up for this, then you, Mr Ironmaster, must remember that a day may come when you yourself may want to get a big piece of pork, and then you will get caught in the trap.”

• Dissimulate: To conceal or disguise one’s true feelings or intentions.
• Splendour: Grandeur or magnificence.
• Trader: Someone engaged in trade or commerce.
• Forge: A workshop where metals are heated and shaped.
• Harm has been done: Implies that the situation may have caused some negative consequences.
• Sheriff: A law enforcement officer with specific duties, often at the county level.
• Cheese rinds and bits of pork: Metaphorical expressions for enticing but ultimately unsatisfying or deceptive offerings.
• Locked up: Incarcerated or detained.

In this part of the story, the tramp, now confronted about his true identity, acknowledges the end of the charade. He admits that he never pretended to be anything other than a poor trader and emphasizes that he requested permission to stay in the forge. The tramp minimizes the potential harm, suggesting that he can put on his old clothing and leave if necessary.

The ironmaster responds, pointing out that the tramp’s actions were not entirely honest, hinting that the sheriff might have something to say about the matter. The tramp, undeterred, takes a bold step forward and strikes the table with his fist. He then shares his perspective on the world, likening it to a big rattrap. He argues that the enticing things offered in life are like bait, intended to lead people into trouble. The tramp issues a warning to the ironmaster, suggesting that a day may come when the ironmaster, too, falls into a trap, emphasizing the unpredictability of life’s circumstances.

This exchange adds depth to the story, highlighting themes of deception, temptation, and the consequences of one’s actions. It also sets the stage for potential repercussions and a further exploration of the tramp’s philosophy on life.

20. The ironmaster began to laugh. “That was not so badly said, my good fellow. Perhaps we should let the sheriff alone on Christmas Eve. But now get out of here as fast as you can.” But just as the man was opening the door, the daughter said, “I think he ought to stay with us today. I don’t want him to go.” And with that she went and closed the door. “What in the world are you doing?” said the father. The daughter stood there quite embarrassed and hardly knew what to answer. That morning she had felt so happy when she thought how homelike and Christmassy she was going to make things for the poor hungry wretch. She could not get away from the idea all at once, and that was why she had interceded for the vagabond.

• Homelike: Creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort associated with a home.
• Christmassy: Reflecting the festive and joyful atmosphere of Christmas.
• Interceded: Advocated or pleaded on behalf of someone.

In this part of the story, the ironmaster responds to the tramp’s bold statements with laughter and a somewhat lenient attitude. He suggests letting the sheriff be on Christmas Eve but instructs the tramp to leave promptly. However, the daughter intervenes, expressing her desire for the tramp to stay with them for the day, and she closes the door to prevent him from leaving.

The ironmaster, surprised by his daughter’s actions, questions her decision. The daughter, feeling embarrassed, struggles to provide a straightforward answer. The narrative reveals that in the morning, she had envisioned creating a homelike and Christmassy atmosphere for the tramp, planning to make the day festive for the hungry wanderer. Her compassion and the desire to extend kindness to the vagabond lead her to intercede on his behalf, challenging her father’s initial decision to dismiss the tramp.

This development introduces a conflict within the family regarding the treatment of the tramp and sets the stage for further exploration of the characters’ motivations and the dynamics between them. The daughter’s compassion and the clash of perspectives contribute to the complexity of the narrative.

21. “I am thinking of this stranger here,” said the young girl. “He walks and walks the whole year long, and there is probably not a single place in the whole country where he is welcome and can feel at home. Wherever he turns he is chased away. Always he is afraid of being arrested and cross-examined. I should like to have him enjoy a day of peace with us here — just one in the whole year.” The ironmaster mumbled something in his beard. He could not bring himself to oppose her. “It was all a mistake, of course,” she continued. “But anyway I don’t think we ought to chase away a human being whom we have asked to come here, and to whom we have promised Christmas cheer.” “You do preach worse than a parson,” said the ironmaster. “I only hope you won’t have to regret this.”

• Cross-examined: Questioned thoroughly and often aggressively, typically in a legal or investigative context.
• Mumbled something in his beard: A figurative expression indicating that the ironmaster muttered or spoke quietly to himself without making his words fully audible.
• Oppose: To go against or resist.
• Christmas cheer: The festive and joyful spirit associated with the Christmas season.

In this part of the story, the daughter explains her perspective to her father, expressing empathy for the tramp’s difficult and transient life. She emphasizes that the stranger, who walks the whole year long, likely struggles to find a welcoming place where he can feel at home. She paints a picture of the tramp’s constant fear of being chased away and arrested, highlighting the challenges he faces.

The daughter’s compassion leads her to advocate for the tramp’s presence and request that he be allowed to enjoy a day of peace with them on Christmas, which she sees as a small gesture of kindness. The ironmaster, though initially hesitant, cannot bring himself to oppose his daughter’s compassionate plea. The daughter acknowledges that the situation was a mistake but argues against turning away someone they have invited and promised Christmas cheer.

The ironmaster, in response, somewhat playfully suggests that his daughter preaches like a parson (clergyman) and expresses a hope that they won’t regret this decision. This exchange adds depth to the characters’ relationships and explores themes of kindness, forgiveness, and the willingness to welcome a stranger into their home during the Christmas season.

22. The young girl took the stranger by the hand and led him up to the table. “Now sit down and eat,” she said, for she could see that her father had given in. The man with the rattraps said not a word; he only sat down and helped himself to the food. Time after time he looked at the young girl who had interceded for him. Why had she done it? What could the crazy idea be? After that, Christmas Eve at Ramsjo passed just as it always had. The stranger did not cause any trouble because he did nothing but sleep. The whole forenoon he lay on the sofa in one of the guest rooms and slept at one stretch. At noon they woke him up so that he could have his share of the good Christmas fare, but after that he slept again. It seemed as though for many years he had not been able to sleep as quietly and safely as here at Ramsjo.

• Given in: Accepted or yielded to someone’s request or persuasion.
• Interceded: Advocated or pleaded on behalf of someone.
• Forenoon: The time of day between morning and noon; late morning.

In this part of the story, the daughter takes the tramp by the hand and guides him to the table, signaling that her father has given in to her plea. She encourages the tramp to sit down and eat, and he follows her lead without saying a word. The tramp, still puzzled by the young girl’s intercession, observes her curiously.

As Christmas Eve at Ramsjo unfolds, the tramp doesn’t cause any trouble; instead, he spends most of the time sleeping. In the guest room, he lies on the sofa and sleeps for an extended period. The narrative notes that when he wakes up at noon, he is brought to the table to partake in the good Christmas fare, after which he resumes sleeping. The description highlights the tranquility and safety the tramp experiences during his time at Ramsjo, suggesting that this environment provides a rare respite from his usual restless and uncertain life.

This part of the story explores the aftermath of the decision to welcome the tramp into the home for Christmas Eve, focusing on the tramp’s quiet presence and the contrast between his usual hardships and the comfort he finds at Ramsjo. It adds a layer of mystery regarding the reasons for the daughter’s compassionate act and leaves the reader curious about the resolution of the story.

23. In the evening, when the Christmas tree was lighted, they woke him up again, and he stood for a while in the drawing room, blinking as though the candlelight hurt him, but after that he disappeared again. Two hours later he was aroused once more. He then had to go down into the dining room and eat the Christmas fish and porridge. As soon as they got up from the table he went around to each one present and said thank you and good night, but when he came to the young girl she gave him to understand that it was her father’s intention that the suit which he wore was to be a Christmas present — he did not have to return it; and if he wanted to spend next Christmas Eve in a place where he could rest in peace, and be sure that no evil would befall him, he would be welcomed back again.

• Christmas tree: A decorated evergreen tree, traditionally associated with the celebration of Christmas.
• Blinking: Closing and opening the eyes rapidly, often in response to bright light.
• Christmas fish and porridge: Traditional Christmas dishes, often varying by region and cultural practices.
• Present: A gift given to someone, especially as a token of goodwill or celebration.

In this part of the story, the tramp is awakened when the Christmas tree is lit, and he briefly joins the celebration in the drawing room. However, he soon disappears again. Later in the evening, he is awakened once more to partake in the Christmas fish and porridge in the dining room.

After the meal, the tramp expresses gratitude and bids good night to each person present. When he reaches the young girl, she communicates her father’s intention that the suit he’s wearing is a Christmas present. The gesture implies that he is not required to return the clothing. Furthermore, she extends an invitation for the tramp to spend the next Christmas Eve in their home, assuring him a peaceful and safe environment where no harm will befall him. This offer is a continuation of the kindness the family has shown him, emphasizing themes of generosity, compassion, and the spirit of Christmas.

This part of the story marks a significant moment of connection between the characters and further explores the impact of the daughter’s decision to welcome the tramp into their home for Christmas Eve. It also hints at the possibility of a continued relationship or friendship between the family and the tramp.

24. The man with the rattraps did not answer anything to this. He only stared at the young girl in boundless amazement. The next morning the ironmaster and his daughter got up in good season to go to the early Christmas service. Their guest was still asleep, and they did not disturb him. When, at about ten o’clock, they drove back from the church, the young girl sat and hung her head even more dejectedly than usual. At church she had learned that one of the old crofters of the ironworks had been robbed by a man who went around selling rattraps. “Yes, that was a fine fellow you let into the house,” said her father. “I only wonder how many silver spoons are left in the cupboard by this time.”

• Boundless amazement: Expressing extreme surprise or astonishment without limits.
• Early Christmas service: A religious service held early in the morning on Christmas Day.
• Dejectedly: In a disheartened or depressed manner.
• Crofters: Small-scale farmers or tenants, often working on rented land.

In this part of the story, the tramp, still wearing the suit given as a Christmas present, reacts to the young girl’s invitation for him to return next Christmas Eve with boundless amazement. His lack of verbal response is noted.

The following morning, the ironmaster and his daughter, having attended the early Christmas service, return home. The young girl appears more dejected than usual, and her father questions the wisdom of letting the tramp into the house. He reveals that during their time at church, they learned that a man selling rattraps, similar to the tramp, had robbed one of the old crofters (small-scale farmers) at the ironworks.

The father expresses concern about potential theft, mentioning silver spoons as a symbolic representation of valuable items in the household. This development introduces a twist in the narrative, creating tension and raising questions about the true intentions of the tramp and the consequences of the family’s hospitality. It adds complexity to the characters’ relationships and challenges the initial impression of the tramp as a harmless wanderer.

25. The wagon had hardly stopped at the front steps when the ironmaster asked the valet whether the stranger was still there. He added that he had heard at church that the man was a thief. The valet answered that the fellow had gone and that he had not taken anything with him at all. On the contrary, he had left behind a little package which Miss Willmansson was to be kind enough to accept as a Christmas present. The young girl opened the package, which was so badly done up that the contents came into view at once. She gave a little cry of joy. She found a small rattrap, and in it lay three wrinkled ten kronor notes. But that was not all. In the rattrap lay also a letter written in large, jagged characters — “Honoured and noble Miss, “Since you have been so nice to me all day long, as if I was a captain, I want to be nice to you, in return, as if I was a real captain — for I do not want you to be embarrassed at this Christmas season by a thief; but you can give back the money to the old man on the roadside, who has the money pouch hanging on the window frame as a bait for poor wanderers. “The rattrap is a Christmas present from a rat who would have been caught in this world’s rattrap if he had not been raised to captain, because in that way he got power to clear himself. “Written with friendship and high regard, “Captain von Stahle.”

• Valet: A personal servant, typically employed to care for the clothing and personal needs of their employer.
• Done up: Wrapped or packaged.
• Wrinkled: Folded or creased, often resulting in small lines or ridges.
• Jagged: Having rough, uneven, or irregular edges.

In this part of the story, the ironmaster, upon returning home from church, inquires about the stranger. The valet informs him that the man has left and did not take anything with him. Instead, the tramp left a package for Miss Willmansson as a Christmas present.

Upon opening the package, the young girl discovers a small rattrap inside. To her joy, she finds three wrinkled ten-kronor notes within the rattrap. Additionally, there is a letter with large, jagged characters. The letter is from “Captain von Stahle,” the tramp himself. In the letter, he expresses gratitude for the kindness shown to him during the day. He explains that the rattrap is a Christmas present from a rat (referring to himself), and he emphasizes that he didn’t want the young girl to be embarrassed by a thief. The letter suggests that the money is to be returned to the old man on the roadside who uses a money pouch as bait for poor wanderers.

This unexpected turn of events adds a layer of complexity to the story, challenging the assumption that the tramp was a thief. It reveals a surprising act of kindness on the part of the tramp and provides insight into his perspective and motivations. The letter introduces the alias “Captain von Stahle,” highlighting the tramp’s imaginative and perhaps whimsical nature.

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