six o'clock
James Gardiner heaved a sigh of relief as he deposited his suit case beside Tom 's in the room to which they had been assigned . `` Girls are an awful responsibility , '' he remarked gloomily , with a care-worn expression that made Tom shout with laughter . `` I like them all right enough , but not in bunches . '' By making a special effort , the party was ready by six o'clock to descend to dinner , which was served to them in a private dining room , Mrs. Gibson having thoughtfully made this arrangement , in order to give the young folks as much time together as possible . They made a pretty picture as they sat at the round table , the delicate finery of the girls gaining in effect from the sombre evening coats of the boys . Mrs. Gibson , gowned in white silk with an overdress of black chiffon , sat at the head of the table and did the honors of the occasion . `` I feel frightfully out of place in this company of chivalry and beauty , '' Anne remarked , looking fondly about her at the friends whose presence told more plainly than words could have done the place she occupied in their hearts .