Visit to the Countryside/The Boyhood Friend

These men have clearly known each other for decades, possibly since they were boys and lived in the same city. When they started to work, they had to move to different places, far away from each other. But they kept in touch by writing letters, informing the other of the latest news and happenings. Both of them have become successful professionals. They have grown older, and rounder. Now the host with his dog can warmly welcome his old friend who has finally found the time to come and visit. He just arrived with the stagecoach seen in the background. The postman on the stairs to the right is bringing his suitcase. In a sunlit garden with typical Spitzweg plants – including the agave in a pot – the friend, well-fed in a warm coat with hat and glasses, has just put down his baggage. His old friend is enthusiastically gesturing, greeting him on the steps to his house, wearing comfortable indoor clothes and holding a long pipe in his hand.