seven o'clock
`` They had better not try it , then , my dear , '' answered Sir Michael ; `` they would find themselves in rather a dangerous position if they did . '' Lady Audley laughed aloud , with a gay , triumphant , silvery peal of laughter that vibrated through the quiet room . `` My own dear darling , '' she said , `` I know you love me . And now I must run away , dear , for it 's past seven o'clock . I was engaged to dine at Mrs. Montford 's , but I must send a groom with a message of apology , for Mr. Audley has made me quite unfit for company . I shall stay at home and nurse you , dear . You 'll go to bed very early , wo n't you , and take great care of yourself ? ''