three
o'clock
Wrapped in tissue paper , tucked under Stover 's arm , were the precious shoes , which he had purchased on the distinct understanding that Macnooder should have the right to redeem them at any time before the end of the term , on the payment of costs and fifty-per-cent interest . In Stover 's pocket was a new fountain pen , a box of elastics , a pair of Boston garters and a patent nail clipper . Only the limits of his exchequer had prohibited his availing himself of the opportunity to purchase , at a tremendous bargain , a pair of snow-shoes , a tobogganing cap and a pair of corduroy trousers , slightly spotted . Luckily for Dink , marching warily behind the vanguard , the three o'clock recitation had begun , and but a scattering of his schoolmates were abroad to witness his progress . He arrived thus , virtually unnoticed , at the Green and , with the help of Klondike , arranged his possessions so as to make the greatest display . He was standing in the middle of the floor , clutching the historic shoes and searching the walls for the proper place of honor , when Butsey White blew in . `` Where in thunder have you been ? ''