nine o'clock
At the dinner table that night -- such of the school as was left -- chattered only of Laurel Cottage . They were as excited over Gramma and Granpa 's happiness , as over their own approaching holiday . All sixty-four were planning to drink tea , on the first day of their return , from Gramma 's six cups . Toward nine o'clock , Patty and Priscilla , by a special dispensation that allowed late hours in vacation , received permission to accompany Conny and ten other dear friends to the station for the western express . Driving back alone in the `` hearse , '' still bubbling with the hilarity of Christmas farewells , they passed the Laurel Cottage . `` I believe they 're still up ! '' said Priscilla .