Midnight
The road wound for some distance through a wooded region and over several hills . At length it entered upon a settlement where the land was lean and rocks lifted their frowning heads above the surface . The few houses were poor , standing out grey and gaunt in the midst of this weird barrenness . But at every door Midnight was accustomed to stop . Well did she know the little voices which welcomed her , and the tiny hands which stroked her soft nose , or held up some dainty morsel of bread , potatoes or grass . But to-day there was none of this . She knew when the reins throbbed with an energy which meant hurry .