nine o'clock
She allowed her hand to remain in his for a moment or two ; then withdrawing it , said hurriedly , with a slight colour showing in her cheeks : `` I think I understand . '' Then changing her tone abruptly , and dropping into the business-like manner of a V. A. D. , she said , `` So , we 'll go to-morrow . It will be a splendid run , if the day is fine . We had better start by nine o'clock to give us a long day . '' Then , as if forgetting she was a V. A. D. , she added with a little catch in her voice , `` Oh , I shall love it ! '' The day proved to be fine , -- one of those golden days of spring that have given to the land its name of `` sunny France . '' It was a day for life and youth and hope .