quarter before four
Her pink parasol was flounced with chiffon and adorned with a bunch of pink roses , and two rose blooms were tucked in her belt . `` Rather summery garb , for the last of April , '' said Patty , gazing at herself in Adele 's long mirror ; `` but I said I 'd wear white before I thought . However , it 's a lovely day , and with my motor coat I 'll be warm enough going over . '' They started off in high spirits , and reached the post-office at quarter before four . Kit was already there , walking calmly up and down the maple-shaded village street , and apparently waiting with properly concealed impatience . In accordance with directions , the chauffeur drove right past the post-office and around a corner , where the three conspirators might indulge in a burst of laughter . `` I sha n't appear until a few minutes after four , '' said Patty ; `` it is n't feminine to keep an appointment on time . ''