three
o'clock
Alec thought it unwise thus to outrage conventional opinion , but he could not withstand her fiery spirit . Dick and Mrs. Crowley were partners at the time , and the disapproval which Lucy saw in their eyes , made her more vehement in her defiance . She had caught Bobbie 's glance , too , and she flung back her head a little as she saw his livid anger . Little by little Lady Kelsey 's guests bade her farewell , and at three o'clock few were left . Lucy had asked Alec to remain till the end , and he and Dick had taken refuge in the smoking-room . Presently Boulger came in with two men , named Mallins and Carbery , whom Alec knew slightly . He glanced at Alec , and went up to the table on which were cigarettes and various things to drink .