nine
o'clock
She knew by long experience that if this happened it would be fatal . But in a swift flash of decision Claire made up her mind for one thing -- she would either go to Mrs. Condor 's evening alone or she would send her regrets . By a series of neutral subterfuges and tactful evasions Claire Robson won her point -- she went to the Condor musicale at Ned Stillman 's apartments alone , and on that same night her mother wended a rather grudging way to the Second Presbyterian Church reception . Acting under her mother 's advice , Claire timed her arrival for nine o'clock , an hour which seemed incredibly late to one schooled in the temperate hour of church socials . Mrs. Condor herself opened the door in answer to Claire 's ring . `` Oh , my dear , but I _ am _ glad to see you ! '' burst from the elder woman as she waved her in .