Thanks to the skill of the Doctor , and the devotion of his helpers , Rose grew easier about midnight , and all hoped that the worst was over . Phebe was making tea by the study fire , for the Doctor had forgotten to eat and drink since Rose was ill , and Aunt Plenty insisted on his having a `` good cordial dish of tea '' after his exertions . A tap on the window startled Phebe , and , looking up , she saw a face peering in . She was not afraid , for a second look showed her that it was neither ghost nor burglar , but Mac , looking pale and wild in the wintry moonlight . `` Come and let a fellow in , '' he said in a low tone , and when he stood in the hall he clutched Phebe 's arm , whispering gruffly , `` How is Rose ? '' `` Thanks be to goodness , she 's better , '' answered Phebe , with a smile that was like broad sunshine to the poor lad 's anxious heart . `` And she will be all right again to-morrow ? '' `` Oh , dear no ! Dolly says she 's sure to have rheumatic fever , if she do n't have noo-monia ! '' answered Phebe , careful to pronounce the word rightly this time . Down went Mac 's face , and remorse began to gnaw at him again as he gave a great sigh and said doubtfully , `` I suppose I could n't see her ? '' `` Of course not at this time of night , when we want her to go to sleep ! '' Mac opened his mouth to say something more , when a sneeze came upon him unawares , and a loud `` Ah rash hoo ! '' awoke the echoes of the quiet house . `` Why did n't you stop it ? '' said Phebe reproachfully . `` I dare say you 've waked her up . '' `` Did n't know it was coming . Just my luck ! '' groaned Mac , turning to go before his unfortunate presence did more harm .
But a voice from the stair-head called softly , `` Mac , come up ; XXXXX wants to see you . ''
Dolly Mac Phebe Rose fire midnight night right second sneeze