twelve o'clock
And Phillis withdrew , as though she were satisfied with the answer . Nothing more was said on the subject ; and they settled themselves to their work as usual on the following morning , Dulce chattering and singing snatches of songs , -- for she was a most merry little soul , -- Nan cheerful and ready for conversation with any one ; but Phillis withdrew herself to the farthest window and stitched away in grave silence . And , seeing such was her mood , her sisters wisely forbore to disturb her . At twelve o'clock the gate-bell sounded , and Dulce , who hailed any interruption as a joyful reprieve , announced delightedly that Mattie and a tall young lady were coming up the flagged walk ; and in an instant Phillis 's work lay untouched on her lap . `` Are you all here ? Oh , dear , I am so glad , '' exclaimed Mattie , bustling into the room with a radiant face . `` I have brought Grace to see you ; she arrived last night . ''