midnight
Still clasping the thin hand , she noticed the chill . Cautiously , lest she might disturb the sleeper , she slipped off her little flannel skirt , the last article made by her mother , and wrapped the cold hands within its folds . The scant coverings she also tucked up more closely and put their last bit of coal upon the fire . Till midnight she sat by the bed , wondering why mother was so very still , and why she was growing so cold . At last , being able to endure the suspense no longer , stepping across the hall , she called for Mrs. Gray . `` Land sakes , child , why ai n't you in bed this time of night ? '' `` Please , Mis ' Gray , I 'd like to borrow a comfort , 'cause mother 's so awful cold , and I ca n't get her warm . ''