eight o’clock
The eagle now , without any hesitation , pronounced the dove to be deservedly the happiest of the feathered kind ; and however unwilling the rest of the birds were to assent to the judgment given , yet could they not dispute the justice of the decree . Here Miss Jenny ceased reading , and all the little company expressed by their looks , that they were overjoyed at the eagle 's determination ; for they had all in their own minds forestalled the eagle 's judgment , of giving the preference to the dove . ` Now , my good children , ' said Mrs. Teachum , ` if you will pass through this life with real pleasure , imitate the dove ; and remember , that innocence of mind , and integrity of heart , adorn the female character , and can alone produce your own happiness , and diffuse it to all around you . ' Our little company thanked their governess for her fable ; and , just at that instant , they heard a chariot drive into the court , and Mrs. Teachum went out to see what visitor could be arrived so late in the evening ; for it was near eight o'clock . They all remained in the room where their governess left them ; for they had been taught never to run out to the door , or to the windows , to look at any strangers that came , till they knew whether it was proper for them to see them or not . Mrs. Teachum soon returned with a letter open in her hand , and remained some little time silent ; but cast on every one round such a tender and affectionate look , a tear almost starting from her eye , that the sympathising sorrow seemed to spread through the whole company , and they were all silent , and ready to cry , though they knew not for what reason . ` I am sorry , my little dears , ' said Mrs. Teachum , ` to give your tender bosoms the uneasiness I fear the contents of this letter will do , as it will deprive you of that your hearts so justly hold most dear . '