four o'clock
Elsie 's few acquaintances will soon be here . '' Mrs. Gerome thrust the key of her desk into her pocket , but a moment after , when she drew out her handkerchief , it fell on the carpet , and without observing it , she passed swiftly across the hall , and into her own apartment . As Dr. Grey lingered to secure the door , his eye fell upon the silver key on the floor ; and , placing it in his vest pocket , he rejoined Salome . At four o'clock several of Robert 's friends came and seated themselves in the room where the coffin sat wreathed with flowers ; and immediately after , Mr. and Mrs. Spiewell made their appearance , accompanied by two ladies whose features were concealed by thick veils . Robert and the servants soon joined them , and Salome stole into the room and sat down in one corner . Dr. Grey tapped softly at the door of Mrs. Gerome 's apartment , and she came out instantly , and walked firmly forward till she stood in the presence of the dead . She was dressed in black silk , and wore two heavy lace veils over her bonnet , which effectually screened her countenance .