7 p.m.
`` About twelve or fourteen , thank you . Excuse me -- I have something to finish in my own room . '' They were very glad to excuse her , and the following note was concocted to serve both for those she might have invited and those she might not ; and it was copied by the two daughters for all the acquaintance who had young folks in their houses . An appearance of want of unanimity was carefully avoided , and it stood thus : -- `` I am desired by Mrs. Poynsett to say that the ladies ' party already proposed for the 3rd is to undergo a little expansion , and that she much hopes to see you and -- , at 7 p.m. , disposed for a few Christmas amusements . '' The Drive To Backsworth She was betrothed to one now dead , Or worse , who had dishonoured fled . -- SCOTT The party set out for Backsworth early in the day . It included Julius , who had asked for a seat in the carriage in order to be able to go on to Rood House , where lived Dr. Easterby , whom he had not seen since he had been at Compton .