seven o'clock before
Paul stooped and kissed the pretty , flushed face . `` It 's been great fun , Kitty ; you 've nothing to thank me for . It is my first Christmas tree , and I shall take great care of my penknife . '' It was seven o'clock before Sally and Paul regained the quietness and peace of their lodging , for it took some time to deliver all the little ones to their several homes . `` It 's wonderful what surroundings will do for one . I 've felt as if I were a curate to-day ; but it is Kitty who drove me to it . Her despair this morning was almost tragic , '' Paul said .