midnight
So the afternoon wore away , happily for all three , and at five Paul made his appearance . When supper was over Phil played again , and this attracting the attention of the neighbors , Mrs. Hoffman 's rooms were gradually filled with visitors , who finally requested Phil to play some dancing tunes . Finding him able to do so , an impromptu dance was got up , and Mrs. Hoffman , considerably to her surprise , found that she was giving a dancing-party . Paul , that nothing might be left out , took a companion with him and they soon reappeared with cake and ice cream , which were passed around amid great hilarity ; and it was not until midnight that the last visitor went out , and the sound of music and laughter was hushed . `` You are getting fashionable in your old age , mother , '' said Paul , gayly . `` I think I shall send an account of your party to the Home Journal . '' `` I believe it is usual to describe the dresses of the ladies , '' said Mrs. Hoffman , smiling .