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 Plumy 's shrill voice singing the good old hymn -- `` Lord , in the morning Thou shalt hear My voice ascending high . '' An open fire blazed on the hearth , for the cooking was done in the lean-to , and the spacious , sunny kitchen was kept in all its old-fashioned perfection , with the wooden settle in a warm nook , the tall clock behind the door , copper and pewter utensils shining on the dresser , old china in the corner closet and a little spinning wheel rescued from the garret by Sophie to adorn the deep window , full of scarlet geraniums , Christmas roses , and white chrysanthemums . The young lady , in a checked apron and mob-cap , greeted her friends with a dish of buckwheats in one hand , and a pair of cheeks that proved she had been learning to fry these delectable cakes . `` You do ` keep it up ' in earnest , upon my word ; and very becoming it is , dear . But wo n't you ruin your complexion and roughen your hands if you do so much of this new fancy-work ? '' asked Emily , much amazed at this novel freak . `` I like it , and really believe I 've found my proper sphere at last . Domestic life seems so pleasant to me that I feel as if I 'd better keep it up for the rest of my life , '' answered Sophie , making a pretty picture of herself as she cut great slices of brown bread , with the early sunshine touching her happy face . `` The charming Miss Vaughan in the role of a farmer 's wife . I find it difficult to imagine , and shrink from the thought of the wide-spread dismay such a fate will produce among her adorers , '' added Randal , as he basked in the glow of the hospitable fire . `` She might do worse ; but come to breakfast and do honor to my handiwork , '' said Sophie , thinking of her worn-out millionnaire , and rather nettled by the satiric smile on Randal 's lips . `` What an appetite early rising gives one .
I feel equal to almost anything , so let me help wash cups , '' said XXXXX , with unusual energy , when the hearty meal was over and Sophie began to pick up the dishes as if it was her usual work .
Basset Bassets Emily Plumy Randal Saul Sophie fancy-work fire night