quarter before four
`` Now that 's a little lady , '' said Grandma , approvingly , and Marjorie felt glad that she had n't given way to her irritation . `` What time is the party , Grandma ? '' asked Kitty . `` From four to six , Kitty ; but you children must be dressed , and in the drawing-room at quarter before four . '' The day dragged along , as there was nothing especial to do and no way to have any fun . Grandpa Maynard had gone out with their father , and though the children went up in the billiard room they did n't feel just like romping . `` I hate this house ! ''