three o'clock in the afternoon
One by one , as misfortune came upon her , did her fashionable friends desert her , until she was left alone , with none to lean upon except the God of the widow and fatherless , and in Him she found a strong help for her dark hour of need . Bravely she withstood the storm , and when it was over , retired with the small remnant of her once large fortune to the obscure neighborhood of Rice Corner , where with careful economy she managed to live comfortably , besides saving a portion for the poor and destitute . She had taken a particular fancy to Mary , and in giving her a home , she had thought more of the good she could do the child , than of any benefit she would receive from her services as waiting maid . She had fully intended to go for Mary herself ; but as we already know , was prevented by a severe headache , and it was not until three o'clock in the afternoon , that she was even able to see her at all . Then , calling Judith , she bade her bring the little girl to her room , and leave them alone . Judith obeyed , charging Mary to `` tread on tiptoe , and keep as still as a mouse , for Miss Mason 's head ached fit to split . '' This caution was unnecessary , for Mary had been so much accustomed to sick persons that she knew intuitively just what to do and when to do it and her step was so light , her voice so low , and the hand which bathed the aching head so soft and gentle in its touch , that Mrs. Mason involuntarily drew her to her bosom , and kissing her lips , called her her child , and said she should never leave her then laying back in her easy chair , she remained perfectly still , while Mary alternately fixed her hair , and smoothed her forehead until she fell into a quiet slumber , from which she did not awake until Judith rang the bell for supper , which was neatly laid out in a little dining parlor , opening into the flower garden .