Question

How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter?

Answer 1

The different ways in which the peddler repaid the three people corresponds to the way he interpreted the kindness of the three people. The peddler realized that for the crofter it was his craving for company that led him to offer his hospitality. The ironmaster's hospitality apparently is limited to his acquaintances. It was only the daughter who genuinely offered warmth and goodness to the peddler. He was touched by Edla's kindness and it made him want to act differently. He repaid her good treatment with a gesture of true gratitude.