The Rattrap Peddler/Traveler/Vagabond
A vagabond traveling the roads and trying to make an honest income selling handmade rattraps who finds he must nevertheless supplement the meager sales with begging or thievery. He steals from a crofter, is mistaken for an old military acquaintance by the Ironmaster, and is treated with such generosity by the Ironmaster's daughter that it redeems him and encourages him to alter his cynical and pessimistic attitude.
The Crofter
The vagabond comes across an old man who kindly offers him food and shelter. The crofter is a widower and is thrilled to have company. They play cards and converse into the night. But despite the crofter sharing his warm food and tobacco, the peddler steals the money hanging on a nail by the front door.
The Ironmaster
Owner of Ramsjö Ironworks, where the vagabond takes shelter after getting lost in the woods. The Ironmaster served in the war, and he mistakes the vagabond for an old war buddy.
Edla Willmansson
Edla is the Ironmaster's plain but kind daughter who convinces her father that despite the initial deception, the vagabond should be allowed to stay for Christmas. She insists that there is no reason to kick him out because there is plenty of food and space for him to sleep. Edla is a force of non-judgemental kindness that ultimately leads to the vagabond's redemption.
