the hour of seven
She had made up her mind very definitely what to do . Without even waiting to get any breakfast , she unfastened the hall door , opened it , and stepped out into the full radiance of the summer 's morning . A quick walk brought her in a little over half an hour to Harley Grove . When she went up the ponderous flight of steps which led to the principal door of the mansion a clock far away struck the hour of seven . `` It is terribly early , '' she said to herself , `` terribly early to disturb her ; but it is my only chance . I must have time ; I can not rush this thing . If she can help me I believe she will ; and anyhow , I do no harm by what I intend to say to her . ''