seven o'clock
Stella walked over to the Street to buy some thread , and Matt Pillsbury brought her home in his new sleigh with the glossy red back and the scrolls of gilt at the corners . Matt was a lithe , animated youth who could do many unexpected and serviceable things : a little singing , a little violin-playing , and tricks with cards . He was younger than Stella , but he reflected , as he drove with her over the smooth road , nobody would ever know it because he was dark and she was fair , and he resolved to let his mustache grow a little longer and curl it more at the ends . Mrs. Joyce was away when this happened , quilting at Deacon White 's ; but all the next day , which was Saturday , she remained perfectly aware that Stella was making plans , and when at seven o'clock the girl came down in her green plaid with her gold beads on , Mrs. Joyce drew the breath of peace . `` Well , there , '' she said , `` if you behave as well as you look , you 'll do well , an ' if Jerry do n't say so I 'll miss my guess . '' Stella was gazing at her , trembling a little , but defiant also . `` Mother , '' she said , `` if Jerry comes , you go to the door and you tell him -- oh , my soul !