half
past twelve o'clock
They had decided not to stay up until Mr. Southard 's return . Once in their rooms they found themselves too sleepy for conversation and five minutes after their lights were out they were fast asleep . They were up in good season the next morning , as it had been agreed that they should be present at the morning service in the church the Southards attended . Thanksgiving dinner was to be served at exactly half past twelve o'clock , instead of at night , for Mr. Southard had a matinee as well as an evening performance to give and never left the theatre for dinner during this short intermission . In church that morning as she sat listening to the beautiful service , Grace felt that she had everything for which to be thankful . In her heart she said an earnest little prayer for all those unfortunates to whom life had grudged even bread . She resolved to be more kind and helpful during the coming year , and prayed that she might see the right clearly and have the courage always to choose it .