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 Plumy 's hospitable welcome , and the savory fumes of the dinner awaiting them , thawed the ice and won their hearts at once . `` Is n't it nice ? Are n't you glad you came ? '' asked Sophie , as she led her friends into the parlor , which she had redeemed from its primness by putting bright chintz curtains to the windows , hemlock boughs over the old portraits , a china bowl of flowers on the table , and a splendid fire on the wide hearth . `` It is perfectly jolly , and this is the way I begin to enjoy myself , '' answered Emily , sitting down upon the home-made rug , whose red flannel roses bloomed in a blue list basket . `` If I may add a little smoke to your glorious fire , it will be quite perfect . Wo n't Samson join me ? '' asked Randal , waiting for permission , cigar-case in hand .
`` He has no small vices , but you may indulge yours , '' answered XXXXX , from the depths of a grandmotherly chair .
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