one o'clock in the afternoon
Under a large maple tree , near the tent , a stage for the musicians had been erected . Two swings had been put up ; and there was no good reason why the children should not enjoy themselves to their hearts ' content . I think the teachers in the Riverdale school found it hard work to secure the attention of their scholars on the forenoon of that day , for all the boys and girls in the neighborhood were thinking about the party . As early as one o'clock in the afternoon the children began to collect at the house of Mr. Lee , and at the end of an hour all who had received invitations were present . The band had arrived , and at a signal from Mr. Lee the music commenced . `` Now , father , we are all here . What shall we do ? ''