five o'clock
A corridor was in course of erection from the entrance to the hall staircase , of gay red and buff bunting . Waggon-loads of boxes containing bright plants in full bloom were being placed about , and the great staircase was covered with red cloth . She nodded to one workman and another , and ascended to the hall on the strength of their acquaintance , where they were putting down a new floor and decorating for the dance . The cathedral bell close at hand was sounding for five o'clock service . `` I should not mind having a spin there with a fellow 's arm round my waist , '' she said to one of the men . `` But Lord , I must be getting home again -- there 's a lot to do . No dancing for me ! ''