One evening he was very busy, and at the same time remarkably quiet about it, so much so that I asked if he was sick. All right, I do that. One afternoon I trimmed all their lanterns and had them bright and shining when they came in for them at evening. They were all thankful for the little act, and especially old John, who referred to it as we sat about the fire in the evening. I told him I was glad he appreciated a clean lantern, and told him if he would not swear any more while I was in camp, I would clean his lanteru every day.
Black night reigns over hill and vale.
The wind moans out its chilling wail Athwart the eaves, around the hedge, And yonder at the mountain ledge. The crystals, beautiful and white, O'ershadowed by sepulchral night, Are falling from yon ebon skies That veil their Author's paradise. Sleep's lullaby we hear As silence broods o'er night so drear. The mind has left time's dreary shore. In dreams, soon real, returns the sleet Upon the angry wind and fleet, Loud beating on the roofs and doors And sifting 'round the sills and floors.