nearly eleven o'clock
Mr. Winthrop is at his club ; Mrs. Winthrop has begged to be excused -- she had retired early with a severe headache . She does not want to see me , thinks Abbot , and that looks as though Viva were obdurate . It is a matter that has served to lose its potency for ill , and the major is angered at himself because of a thrill of hope ; because of the thought of another face that _ will _ intrude . It is nearly eleven o'clock when he hears the rumble of carriage wheels at the door . He steps to the front window and looks out upon the pavement . Yes , there is the old family carriage drawn up in front in the full glare of the gas lamp . The footman is opening its door and Viva Winthrop steps quickly forth , glances up and down the street as though expectant of some one 's coming , and turns quickly to speak to some one in the carriage .