midnight
`` I thought you might feel that way about it , '' he answered me , or rather I think that is what he said , because he was crooning to me and the Ladies Bird at the same time , and with a mixture of epitaphs and endearments that I did n't care to untangle . `` There , there , lovely lady , do n't be scared ; it is going to be all right , '' he soothed , as he lifted one of the fluffy biddies and tucked her under his arm . `` Oh , I am so glad you think so , '' I claimed the remark by exclaiming , while she made her claim by a contented little cluck . `` Now do n't be bothered , sweetheart , '' he again said , as he picked up another of the Ladies Bird and turned towards the huge old tumble-down barn that was yawning a black midnight out into the gray moonlight . `` Let 's all go into the barn and settle down to live happily together ever after . '' `` I think that will be lovely , '' I answered , while beautiful Mrs. Bird made her reply with a consenting cluck . I never supposed I would make an affirmative answer to a domestic proposal that was at least uncertain of intent , but then I also never dreamed of being in the position of guardian to eleven head of prize live stock , and I think anything I did or said under the circumstances was excusable .