Midnight
Again it came -- a pathetic whinny out in the yard . She sprang to her feet , and rushed to the back door . She knew that call , for how often had she heard it ! Midnight was there , standing almost at the threshold . Her dim form could be seen as Nellie peered out . She hurried forth , heedless of the pelting storm , expecting to hear her father 's voice . But no cheery greeting met her , neither could she find the sleigh .