the hour of ten
After a time , perhaps , her father would forgive her for this step , and take her back to his home and heart , and welcome Lester , too . She had read of such things . The night air blew bitterly cold against her face as she stepped bravely forth , but she did not waver . The great hall clock chimed the hour of ten , and her heart beat faster , for she said to herself that her lover was nearing the trysting place and she had not much time to spare . `` Good-by , papa , '' she murmured , turning for an instant and looking up at his lighted window . `` Good-by , my stepmamma , '' she whispered . `` You have always hated me and wished me out of the way .