There was a humming in the pine tops and light branches began to toss.

The draught from the door got stronger, but did not bite as keenly, and it sounded as if the snow was falling from the trees.

Then some slipped down the roof, and getting up with tingling nerves, he opened the door.

All the trees were rustling and waves of sound came up the valley.

The sound swelled, the air felt damp, and a drop of moisture from the roof splashed upon his head.