midnight
But Kitty laid to heart what she had said ; Annabel took credit herself for siding with her ; and Emma owned that she was not trying to keep her atmosphere pure when she came to dance with the objectionable Randal . So Rose 's `` little circle '' was the better for the influence she tried to exert , although she never knew it . At suppertime Charlie kept near her , and she was quite content with him , for he drank only coffee , and she saw him shake his head with a frown when young Van beckoned him toward an anteroom , from whence the sound of popping corks had issued with increasing frequency as the evening wore on . `` Dear fellow , he does try , '' thought Rose , longing to show how she admired his self-denial , but she could only say , as they left the supper room with the aunts , who were going early : `` If I had not promised Uncle to get home as soon after midnight as possible , I 'd stay and dance the German with you , for you deserve a reward tonight . '' `` A thousand thanks , but I am going when you do , '' answered Charlie , understanding both her look and words and very grateful for them . `` Really ? '' cried Rose , delighted .