midnight
And the teacher had reason for liking Helen , as she had shown much aptitude for the particular branch of study which Miss Picolet taught . But although most of the girls In the West Dormitory , and some others , were asked to Helen 's tea -LRB- at which Ruth likewise did the honors , and `` helped pour '' -RRB- there was an undercurrent of joking and innuendo among certain of the visitors that showed they had knowledge of further hidden goodies which would , at fit and proper season , be divulged . Jennie Stone , gobbling almond cakes and chocolate , said to Ruth : `` If this is a fair sample of what is to be divulged upon the Night of Harpocrates , I shall fast on that day -- now mind ! '' When the girls had gone Ruth asked her chum , point-blank , if she proposed to have a midnight supper . `` A regular debauch ! '' declared Helen , laughing . `` Now , do n't be prim and prudish about it , Ruthie .