a quarter to seven
Yet in youth many things are possible , and the recital of Mme. Poussette 's history seemed to prepare the way for Pauline 's . Meanwhile Dr. Renaud had spoken to madame , and within an hour she was ready , and , being driven to Lac Calvaire , entered upon her labours without qualm or protest . `` A conspicuous flower , Whom he had sensibility to love , Ambition to attempt and skill to win . '' Thus the next day and for many days to come Ringfield met the lady of his dreams at breakfast and at dinner ; her third meal was served privately to her in her own room at a quarter to seven , and he wondered why until he remembered her vocation . Though at present not acting she evidently retained the habits of the profession , and for the first few days she continued to wear the scarlet silken and spangled drapery in which she had left the theatre , modified by different wraps and scarves ; then a trunk arrived and she appeared more discreetly and soberly clad . One evening it became unusually warm for the season , and stepping out on his balcony he perceived her seated on hers ; he returned her gracious and encouraging salutation , wholly different from the self-conscious manner she affected at the dining-table , and he hoped now to be able to take up the acquaintance where it had been dropped . For his part he meant to ignore that miserable story of Crabbe 's ; he would treat her as the lady she was and the sincere , much-tried creature he thought her .