midnight
Mary however , with a scornful glance at Mrs. Dean , faced about and went upstairs . She had been imbued with a naughty resolve and she determined to proceed at once to carry it out . The dancing went on for a little , but the disagreeable happening had dampened the ardor of the guests and they began leaving for home soon afterward . It was midnight when the last sound of the footsteps of the departing youngsters echoed down the walk . Side by side , Marjorie and her mother watched them go , then the latter slipped her arm through that of her daughter and said , `` Now , Marjorie , we will get to the bottom of this affair . Come with me to Mary 's room . '' They reached it to find the door closed .