ten
o'clock
John , having been given always to understand that the talent for them was exceedingly rare , and one usually hereditary , respectfully doubts Anne 's capabilities , deferentially suggesting that she is thinking of scones . Anne indignantly repudiates the insinuation , knows quite well the difference between girdle-cakes and scones , offers to prove her powers by descending into the kitchen and making some then and there , if John will accompany her and find the things for her . John accepts the challenge , and , guiding Anne with one shy , awkward hand , while holding aloft a candle in the other , leads the way . It is past ten o'clock , and the old housekeeper is in bed . At each creaking stair they pause , to listen if the noise has awakened her ; then , finding all silent , creep forward again , with suppressed laughter , wondering with alarm , half feigned , half real , what the prim , methodical dame would say were she to come down and catch them . They reach the kitchen , thanks more to the suggestions of a friendly cat than to John 's acquaintanceship with the geography of his own house ; and Anne rakes together the fire and clears the table for her work . What possible use John is to her -- what need there was for her stipulating that he should accompany her , Anne might find it difficult , if examined , to explain satisfactorily .