five to seven o'clock
School-life began in real earnest , and school-life at Aylmer House was so stimulating , so earnest , so invigorating , that all that was best in each girl was brought to the fore . There was an admirable time-table , which allowed the girls periods for play as well as the most suitable hours for work . In addition , each day there were what were called the `` leisure hours . '' These were from five to seven o'clock each evening . The leisure hours began immediately after tea , and lasted until the period when the girls went to their rooms to dress for dinner . During these two hours they were allowed to do precisely what they pleased . Mrs. Ward was most particular that no teacher should interfere with her girls during the leisure hours .