six o'clock
She left them still clinging together , like a pair of little love-birds , with peace fully restored for the time being . Mrs. Melrose 's car had been waiting for some time , and she was whirled home through the dark and wintry streets without the loss of a second . Lights were lighted everywhere now , and tempered radiance filled the old hall as she entered it . It was just six o'clock , but Norma knew that she and the old lady were to be alone to-night , and she went through the long drawing-room to the library beyond it , thinking she might find her still lingering over the teacups . Dinner under these circumstances was usually at seven , and frequently Mrs. Melrose did not change her gown for it . There was lamplight in the library , but the old lady 's chair was empty , and the tea table had been cleared away . Norma , supposing the room unoccupied , gave a little gasp of surprise and pleasure as Chris suddenly got to his feet among the shadows .