midnight
This is my wife , sir , and that is my daughter . Walk into the house , walk in ; and I will take care of your horse : you both look weary . '' The horse was unsaddled , and washed with cool water from the well , and turned into a field of fresh clover ; and the stranger followed Mrs. Fabens and Fanny into the house ; and , after resting and bathing , a good supper , with a dessert of peaches and cream , was taken . Evening came on , and with it a long conversation , and before they retired , the hour was approaching midnight . `` As you are a minister , sir , will you tell me of what persuasion ? '' asked Fabens , while they conversed . `` The persuasion of Christmas I believe , '' said the minister with a gentle affability .