seven o'clock
The Campers Life began at the camp soon after 5 a.m. , when the more energetic spirits tumbled off their hay sacks , flung on dressing-gowns , and scrambled for turns at the bath tent . Fetching water for the day was the first business of the morning , and those on bucket duty trotted off to the stream , two fields away , joking and making fun as they went , but returning more soberly with the heavy pails . The 6.15 breakfast tasted delicious after their early outing , and most of the workers seemed in good spirits . By seven o'clock the whole party were down in the gardens . The Marlowe Grange girls had never seen strawberries by the acre before , and they were amazed , almost daunted , at the sight of the vast quantity of fruit that must be gathered . They were told off to a certain portion of the field , given baskets , and shown where to bring them when full . Each novice , for the first day , was expected to work near an experienced hand , who could show her what was required , as the picking , though quick , must be careful , so as not to bruise the strawberries .