midnight
Conversation of a sentimental sort , befitting the subject , was carried on between the songs , to which Sambo , after he had brought the tea , the delighted cook , and even Mrs. Blenkinsop , the housekeeper , condescended to listen on the landing-place . Among these ditties was one , the last of the concert , and to the following effect : Ah ! bleak and barren was the moor , Ah ! loud and piercing was the storm , The cottage roof was shelter 'd sure , The cottage hearth was bright and warm -- An orphan boy the lattice pass 'd , And , as he mark 'd its cheerful glow , Felt doubly keen the midnight blast , And doubly cold the fallen snow . They mark 'd him as he onward prest , With fainting heart and weary limb ; Kind voices bade him turn and rest , And gentle faces welcomed him . The dawn is up -- the guest is gone , The cottage hearth is blazing still ; Heaven pity all poor wanderers lone ! Hark to the wind upon the hill !