Saul wanted to get out the double sleigh and span , for he prided himself on his horses , and a fall of snow came most opportunely to beautify the landscape and add a new pleasure to Christmas festivities . But Sophie declared that the old yellow sleigh , with Punch , the farm-horse , must be used , as she wished everything to be in keeping ; and Saul obeyed , thinking he had never seen anything prettier than his cousin when she appeared in his mother 's old-fashioned camlet cloak and blue silk pumpkin hood . He looked remarkably well himself in his fur coat , with hair and beard brushed till they shone like spun gold , a fresh color in his cheek , and the sparkle of amusement in his eyes , while excitement gave his usually grave face the animation it needed to be handsome . Away they jogged in the creaking old sleigh , leaving Ruth to make herself pretty , with a fluttering heart , and Aunt Plumy to dish up a late dinner fit to tempt the most fastidious appetite . `` She has not come for us , and there is not even a stage to take us up . There must be some mistake , '' said Emily Herrick , as she looked about the shabby little station where they were set down . `` That is the never-to-be-forgotten face of our fair friend , but the bonnet of her grandmother , if my eyes do not deceive me , '' answered Randal , turning to survey the couple approaching in the rear . `` Sophie Vaughan , what do you mean by making such a guy of yourself ? '' exclaimed Emily , as she kissed the smiling face in the hood and stared at the quaint cloak . `` I 'm dressed for my part , and I intend to keep it up . This is our host , my cousin , Saul Basset . Come to the sleigh at once , he will see to your luggage , '' said Sophie , painfully conscious of the antiquity of her array as her eyes rested on Emily 's pretty hat and mantle , and the masculine elegance of Randal 's wraps . They were hardly tucked in when Saul appeared with a valise in one hand and a large trunk on his shoulder , swinging both on to a wood-sled that stood near by as easily as if they had been hand-bags . `` That is your hero , is it ? Well , he looks it , calm and comely , taciturn and tall , '' said Emily , in a tone of approbation . `` He should have been named Samson or Goliath ; though I believe it was the small man who slung things about and turned out the hero in the end , '' added Randal , surveying the performance with interest and a touch of envy , for much pen work had made his own hands as delicate as a woman 's . `` Saul does n't live in a glass house , so stones wo n't hurt him . Remember sarcasm is forbidden and sincerity the order of the day . You are country folks now , and it will do you good to try their simple , honest ways for a few days . '' Sophie had no time to say more , for Saul came up and drove off with the brief remark that the baggage would `` be along right away . ''
Being hungry , cold and tired , the guests were rather silent during the short drive , but Aunt XXXXX 's hospitable welcome , and the savory fumes of the dinner awaiting them , thawed the ice and won their hearts at once .
Basset Goliath Herrick Plumy Randal Vaughan approbation days sleigh valise