ten
o'clock
Dr. Ben sat down next to the old lady , and the room , from which the older guests were quietly disappearing , was enthusiastically cleared for dancing . The air , close already , became absolutely insufferable now ; the men 's collars wilted , the girls ' flushed faces streamed perspiration . But the cool side-porch was accessible , and the laughter and noise continued unabated . Quietly crossing the dark backyard for his horse and buggy at ten o'clock , Dr. Ben came upon Joe Hawkes sitting on the shadowy steps with -- he narrowed his eyes to make sure -- yes , with little Sally Monroe . The old man formed his lips into a slow , thoughtful whistle as he busied himself with straps and buckles . Slowly , thoughtfully , he climbed into his buggy . `` Sally ! ''