ten o'clock
A verbal answer came from the distracted mother , saying that he was still absent , and that inquiry of the police had failed to bring any intelligence in regard to him . It was still hoped that he had gone home with some friend , and would return during the day . Steadily the snow continued to fall , and as the wind had risen since morning , it drifted heavily . By ten o'clock it was many inches deep , and there was no sign of abatement . My suspense and fear were so oppressive that , in spite of the storm , I dressed myself and went out to call on my friend . I found her in her chamber , looking very pale , and calmer than I had hoped to find her . But the calmness I soon saw to be a congelation of feeling .