After leaving the crofter’s house, the peddler decides to take advantage of the old man’s trust and generosity. He steals the thirty kronor that the crofter had shown him, reflecting his cynical view of the world and the belief that self-interest prevails. This act of theft marks a turning point in the story, as it highlights the peddler’s moral decline and reinforces the themes of betrayal and exploitation. However, this decision also sets in motion a chain of events that will ultimately challenge his worldview and lead him toward redemption.