Midnight
`` No fear , father , '' was the laughing reply . `` Perhaps he will turn the tables upon me . He knows so much about the woods , wild animals and birds that I like to learn from him . '' Midnight strode along the road , glad of the run in the fresh air . The sleigh bells sent forth their sweet music , echoing and re-echoing from the neighbouring hills and forest . Everything spoke of peace , and in Parson John 's heart dwelt a deeper peace , as he guided Midnight through the gateway and reined her up before the Frenelle door . Though he was somewhat early , others were earlier still , and a group of men , hardy sons of toil , were standing near the house engaged in earnest conversation .