the hour of nine
His rich , deep voice found its way far down in the maiden 's heart ; but she would not allow herself to think so . She would not acknowledge to herself that the restless emotions within her heart were other than a passing thought to a very dear friend ! She must not see that Phillip Lawson , in his gifted , manly character , was her hero of all that was good and true , and that his was the nature by which she tested others . As the foregoing remarks turned into a lengthy conversation Marguerite scarcely heeded that Trinity chimed out the hour of nine when the trio turned their steps homeward , Master Charlie forming an advance guard , and making the air resound with all the hilarity at his command when he came in friendly contact with some of his `` fellers '' as he expressed himself . When Marguerite bade good night to her companion and stood for a moment in the hallway watching the retreating figure , we will not disclose her thoughts , but will follow her to the drawing-room , where `` the Listers '' are marshalled _ en masse _ awaiting her return . `` Marguerite , you darling ! '' exclaimed the eldest Miss Lister rushing forward and embracing the former in a manner that was more demonstrative than conventional , but was accepted with the best of grace , notwithstanding there was to be a repetition four times in succession .