three o'clock
Before introducing her to our readers , we will conduct them to the interior of an obscure dwelling , situated near the outskirts of the city . The room is small , and scantily furnished , and answers at once for parlour , dining-room , and kitchen . Its occupants , Mrs. Perry and her daughter , have been , since the earliest dawn of day , intently occupied with their needles , barely allowing themselves time to partake of their frugal meal . `` Half-past three o'clock ! '' ejaculated the daughter , her eyes glancing , as she spoke , at the clock on the mantelpiece . `` I am afraid we shall not get this work done in time for me to take it home before dark , mother . '' `` We must try hard , Laura , for you know we have not a cent in the house , and I told Mrs. Carr to come over to-night , and I would pay her what I owe her for washing .