Friday noon
Almost every day there had been comings and goings , and though no letters bearing Willett 's superscription went to Almy except by regular mail , even these , it seems , the pressure of his duties made brief and unlike what Lilian had looked for , so that the radiance had gone from her sweet face almost as quickly as it came . Even the girl who bravely insists that the beloved one is beyond doubt , and above suspicion , and all that is perfect , as Lilian strove to insist -- even she will feel in her heart of hearts that there has been neglect , and neglect crushes . Archer saw and said nothing but `` Get ready as quick as we can . '' They were looked for Friday noon . They were ushered into the general 's hospitable quarters late Thursday evening , relayed on from the Agua Fria , after a good noonday rest in camp , and even in bidding them welcome , welcome over again , Mrs. Crook pointed to the brightly lighted assembly room down the winding roadway . `` They 're having a holiday dance to-night , '' said she to Lilian . `` We 'll toddle down after tea and take them all by surprise . ''