`` It was very noble , very touching . And you ? how did you get off at last ? '' asked Randal , with real admiration and respect in his usually languid face . `` Crawled off , '' answered Saul , relapsing into his former brevity of speech . `` Why not before , and save yourself all that misery ? '' `` Could n't leave Joe . '' `` Ah , I see ; there were two heroes that night . '' `` Dozens , I 've no doubt . Those were times that made heroes of men , and women , too . '' `` Tell us more ; '' begged Emily , looking up with an expression none of her admirers ever brought to her face by their softest compliments or wiliest gossip . `` I 've done my part . It 's Mr. Randal 's turn now ; '' and Saul drew himself out of the ruddy circle of firelight , as if ashamed of the prominent part he was playing . Sophie and her friend had often heard Randal talk , for he was an accomplished raconteur , but that night he exerted himself , and was unusually brilliant and entertaining , as if upon his mettle . The Bassets were charmed . They sat late and were very merry , for Aunt Plumy got up a little supper for them , and her cider was as exhilarating as champagne . When they parted for the night and Sophie kissed her aunt , Emily did the same , saying heartily , -- `` It seems as if I 'd known you all my life , and this is certainly the most enchanting old place that ever was . '' `` Glad you like it , dear . But it ai n't all fun , as you 'll find out to-morrow when you go to work , for Sophie says you must , '' answered Mrs. Basset , as her guests trooped away , rashly promising to like everything . They found it difficult to keep their word when they were called at half past six next morning .
Their rooms were warm , however , and they managed to scramble down in time for breakfast , guided by the fragrance of coffee and Aunt XXXXX 's shrill voice singing the good old hymn -- `` Lord , in the morning Thou shalt hear My voice ascending high . ''
Basset Bassets Emily Joe Plumy Randal Saul Sophie night raconteur