midnight
It was a weird light and a weird atmosphere , such as we might imagine overspreading Babylonian ruins , on the lone plains of the Euphrates ; but no such fancies either charmed or tormented the lusty , wide-awake , practical lads and lasses , whom the brightening moon beheld on their way to the Fairthorn farm . `` The best night for huskin ' that ever was , '' comprised the sum of their appreciation . At the old farm-house there was great stir of preparation . Sally , with her gown pinned up , dodged in and out of kitchen and sitting-room , catching herself on every door-handle , while Mother Fairthorn , beaming with quiet content , stood by the fire , and inspected the great kettles which were to contain the materials for the midnight supper . Both were relieved when Betsy Lavender made her appearance , saying , -- `` Let down your gownd , Sally , and give _ me _ that ladle . What 'd be a mighty heap o ' work for you , in that flustered condition , is child 's - play to the likes o ' me , that 's as steady as a cart-horse , -- not that self-praise , as the sayin ' is , is any recommendation , -- but my kickin ' and prancin ' days is over , and high time , too . '' `` No , Betsy , I 'll not allow it ! ''