a few
minutes before six o'clock
The deduction was obvious to the meanest intellect . Geoffrey Greville had driven down to see Elma the morning after her departure , and had spent a considerable time in her society ! Suddenly Cornelia realised that her anxiety could brook no delay , and that it would be impossible to spend another night without discovering how the Moss Rose had fared during her absence . She despatched Mary to The Holt with a verbal message to the effect that she had returned from town , and , if convenient , would much like to see Miss Ramsden for a few minutes before six o'clock , and while she was still at tea the answer was received ; a note this time , written in pencil , and bearing marks of haste and agitation . `` Dearest Cornelia , -- Yes , of course ! I _ am _ thankful you are back . Come right up to my room .