five o’clock
it was impossible to refuse the small gentleman 's invitation . Perhaps you asked yourself , `` Who is my dear friend , Mr. Blocque -- how does he live so well , and wear broadcloth and fine linen ? '' But the next moment you smiled , shrugged your shoulders , elevated your eye-brows , and -- went to dine with him . I was like all the world , and at five o'clock one evening was shown into Mr. Blocque 's elegant residence on Shockoe Hill , by a servant in white gloves , who bowed low , as he ushered me in . Mr. Blocque hastened to receive me , with his most charming smile ; I was introduced to the guests , who had all arrived ; and ten minutes afterward the folding doors opened , revealing a superb banquet -- for the word `` dinner '' would be too common-place . The table was one mass of silver . Waxlights , in candelabra , were already lit ; and a host of servants waited , silent and respectful , behind every chair .