four
p.m.
I do n't wish to go down upon my knees to him , but I do intend to be as kind to him as I should to that conceited Leavenworth boy ; yes , kinder even ; for poor people value such things more , as I know very well . '' Mrs. Carroll instantly recovered her temper , changed the subject , and privately resolved to confine her prejudices to her own bosom , as they seemed to have an aggravating effect upon the youthful person whom she had set her heart on disposing of to the best advantage . Debby took her swimming-lesson with much success , and would have achieved her dinner with composure , if white-aproned gentlemen had not effectually taken away her appetite by whisking bills-of-fare into her hands , and awaiting her orders with a fatherly interest , which induced them to congregate mysterious dishes before her , and blandly rectify her frequent mistakes . She survived the ordeal , however , and at four p.m. went to drive with `` that Leavenworth boy '' in the finest turnout ----- could produce . Aunt Pen then came off guard , and with a sigh of satisfaction subsided into a peaceful doze , still murmuring , even in her sleep , -- `` Propinquity , my love , propinquity works wonders . '' `` Aunt Pen , are you a modest woman ? '' asked the young crusader against established absurdities , as she came into the presence-chamber that evening ready for the hop .