five o'clock
I have much more enjoyment ; and , upon my word , I do n't think I 'm one bit a worse member of society than if I was the most delicate fine lady that ever fainted away at the overpowering smell of a rose leaf or the merry peal of a noisy child 's laugh . '' My aunt lifted up her hands and gave in , for the return of Cousin Amelia from the music-room effectually prevented further discussion ; and we beguiled the time till luncheon by alternate fits of scandal and work , running through the characters of most of the neighbours within twenty miles , and completely demolishing the reputation of _ my _ friend , as they called her -- lively , sarcastic little Mrs. Plumridge . John was off rabbit-shooting , so of course he did not appear at that meal so essential to ladies ; and after Cousin Amelia , by way of being delicate , had got through two cutlets , the best part of a chicken , a plateful of rice-pudding , and a large glass of sherry , I ventured to propose to her that if the afternoon held up we should have a walk . `` I 'm not equal to much fatigue , '' said she , with a languid air and a heavy look about her eyes which I attributed to the luncheon ; `` but if you like we 'll go to the garden and the hothouses , and be back in time for a cup of tea at five o'clock . '' `` Anything to get out of the house , '' was my reply , and forthwith I rushed upstairs , two steps at a time , to put on my things ; whilst my aunt whispered to her daughter , loud enough for me to hear , `` She really ought to have been a man , Emmy ; did you ever see such a hoyden in your life ? '' It was pleasant to get out even into that formal garden . The day was soft and misty , such as one often finds it towards the close of autumn -- dark without being chill -- and the withered leaves strewed the earth in all the beauty of wholesome natural decay .