And that these
simple means prevailed, and she DID please them, let the still darkened
chamber, and its long-deferred illumination witness.
The candles came at last, and it was time for moving homeward. Cutting
paper carefully, and rolling it about the stalks of those same flowers,
occasioned some delay; but even this was done in time, and Ruth was
ready.
'Good night!' said Tom. 'A memorable and delightful visit, John! Good
night!'
John thought he would walk with them.
'No, no. Don't!' said Tom. 'What nonsense! We can get home very well
alone. I couldn't think of taking you out.'
But John said he would rather.
'Are you sure you would rather?' said Tom. 'I am afraid you only say so
out of politeness.'
John being quite sure, gave his arm to Ruth, and led her out.
Fiery-face, who was again in attendance, acknowledged her departure with
so cold a curtsey that it was hardly visible; and cut Tom, dead.
Their host was bent on walking the whole distance, and would not listen
to Tom's dissuasions. Happy time, happy walk, happy parting, happy
dreams! But there are some sweet day-dreams, so there are that put the
visions of the night to shame.
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