four in the
morning
And at home he had a funny story every evening of the world , about something 'd happened during the day ; and 'd whistle to the guitar , or git his maw into a game of cards with his aunt and the girls . Law ! that boy did n't believe in no house of mourning . He 'd be up at four in the morning , hoein ' up their old garden ; raised garden-truck for their table , sparrow-grass and sweet corn -- yes , and roses , too ; always had the house full of roses in June-time ; never _ was _ a house sweeter-smellin ' to go into . `` Mel was what I call a useful citizen . As I said , I knowed him well . I do n't recollect I ever heard him speak of himself , nor yet of his father but once -- for _ that _ , I reckon , he jest could n't ; and for himself ; I do n't believe it ever occurred to him .