about one o'clock
Visitors began to arrive in picturesque groups , strolling through the trees towards the tents . Hot footmen were rushing wildly about , carrying all sorts of eatables and drinkables . Tables creaked and plates clattered . Then , just about one o'clock , came the squire and his lady , followed by many friends , among whom were Mr and Mrs Oliphant ; while Frank , looking supremely happy , with his sunny face all life and playfulness , came last , with Mary on his arm . Usually the Oliphants had kept away from these harvest-homes , for they were not conducted to the rector 's satisfaction , but to-day they had a special reason for coming . Frank had been over to the rectory with an urgent request from his father that Mr Oliphant would be present . He might do good by appearing among them , and Frank wanted Mary to see how he could use his influence in keeping order and sobriety .