midnight
As she hurried to the door she said , `` I heard Aunt Patty say that Uncle Stanley was coming to dinner again tonight . I hope he brings his handsome son again -- do n't you ? '' Uncle Stanley of late had been a frequent visitor on the hill , occasionally bringing his son Burdon with him , but generally coming alone . After dinner he and Josiah would sit in the den till well past midnight , going over papers and figures , and drafting out instructions for Judge Cutler , the firm 's lawyer . Mary was never able to overcome her aversion to Uncle Stanley . `` I wish he 'd stay away , '' she ruefully remarked to her father one night . `` Three evenings this week I have n't been able to come in the den . ''