a quarter to five
`` And what of that , my most scriptural little queen ? '' `` It is n't a time to talk out of novels , '' said Esther , quickening her pace , to reach the frequented road and throng of church-goers . '' `` I am not talking out of any novel that ever was written , '' said Bobus seriously ; but she was speeding on too fast to heed him , and started as he laid a hand on her arm . `` Stay , Essie ; you must not rush on like a frightened fawn , or people will stare , '' he said ; and she slackened her pace , though she shook him off and went on through the numerous passengers on the footpath , with her pretty head held aloft with the stately grace of the startled pheasant , not choosing to seem to hear his attempts at addressing her , and taking refuge at last in the innermost recesses of the family seat at Church , though it was full a quarter to five . There the rest of the party found her , and as they did not find Bobus , they concluded that all was safe . However , when the two Johns were walking home with Mother Carey , Bobus joined them , and soon made his mother fall behind with him , asking her , `` I hope your eloquence prevailed . '' `` Far from it , Bobus , '' she said .