eight o'clock
The hall was good , running the entire length of the house , and opening by tall double doors on to the grounds at the rear . In summer these doors were kept open , and allowed a visitor a charming vista of rose pergolas and the blue-green foliage of an old cedar . All the walls of the house from top to bottom were painted a creamy white , and there was noticeable a prevailing touch of red in Turkey carpets , cushion - covers , and rose-flecked chintzes . Tea was served on a verandah , and after it was over Mrs Fanshawe escorted her visitor round the flower gardens , and finally upstairs to her own bedroom , where she was left with the announcement that dinner would be served at eight o'clock . After dinner the ladies played patience , drank two glasses of hot-water , and retired to bed at ten o'clock . It was not exciting , but on the other hand it was certainly not dull , for Mrs Fanshawe 's personality was so keen , so youthful in its appreciation , that it was impossible not to be infected , and share in her enjoyment . The next week passed quickly and pleasantly .