six o'clock
Percy was a man about forty years of age , a cotillion-leader by profession ; and he caused keen delight to the spectators upon the beach by wearing a monocle in the water . They had lunch at the Casino , and then went for a sail in the Prentices ' new racing yacht . It was estimated just at this time that there was thirty millions ' worth of steam and sailing pleasure-craft in Newport harbour , and the bay was a wonderful sight that afternoon . They came back rather early , however , as Alice had an engagement for a drive at six o'clock , and it was necessary for her to change her costume before she went . It was necessary to change it again before dinner , which was at eight o'clock ; and Montague learned upon inquiry that it was customary to make five or six such changes during the day . The great ladies of Society were adepts in this art , and prided themselves upon the perfect system which enabled them to accomplish it . All of Montague 's New York acquaintances were here in their splendour : Miss Yvette Simpkins , with her forty trunks of new Paris costumes ; Mrs. Billy Alden , who had just launched an aristocratic and exclusive bridge-club for ladies ; Mrs. Winnie Duval , who had created a sensation by the rumour of her intention to introduce the simple life at Newport ; and Mrs. Vivie Patton , whose husband had committed suicide as the only means of separating her from her Count .