Midnight
And the sally was greeted by the loud laughter of all the company , except Cary who did not understand its significance . When it was explained to him that she would wear the mystical tresses who was destined to remain an old maid , he smiled as he murmured to himself : `` I will see to that ! '' The evening had come to an end . Midnight had sounded and Cary Singleton had to take his departure . The whole family accompanied him to the outer door , where his sleigh was in waiting . The last words of farewell still lingered on the faltering lips of the two young women , as they stood in the embrasure of the entrance , when , through the darkness and the pelting of the storm , Zulma noticed a shadow leaning against the house , at a few feet from her . She at once , in a loud voice , challenged it to come forward .