eight o'clock
Her golden curls softly floated over her blue merino dress , and her brown eyes flashed and glowed with delight . `` Mother 's darling , good-bye ! try and be a little lady , and nurse shall fetch you at nine o'clock , '' said the mother , as she pressed her child 's coral lips , and then watched the little feet trip down the road beside the servant . The hours , brimful of frolic and merriment , passed all too quickly for the happy children , and at eight o'clock they gathered in the dining-room for the early supper . The long table was covered with luxuries , and beside each child 's plate was a small glass of wine . `` Now , dear children , make yourselves quite at home , and ask for anything you want , '' said the hostess , as her little guests took their places . `` May I have a glass of water , please ? ''