about nine o'clock in the evening
They met only at church or at the Mission ; and nothing but the common greetings passed between them . No one ever dreamed that they were more than mere acquaintances . But they each felt that the other understood , and so were happy ; content to wait until God , in his own way , should unite the streams of their lives . It was about nine o'clock in the evening , and Dick was in his office at the Association building , writing some letters pertaining to the work , when the door opened , and to his great astonishment , Amy entered hurriedly , out of breath and very much excited . `` I beg your pardon for interrupting you , Mr. Falkner , '' she began , as soon as she could speak ; `` but I must tell you . '' And then she broke down , sinking into a chair and crying bitterly . Dick 's face was very grave , and stepping to the window he drew the curtain , then turned the key in the door .