twelve o'clock
Marjorie 's glorious day was over all too soon . She hovered about Mary with a friendly solicitude that could not be denied . The latter graciously allowed her the privilege , but behind her pleasant manner there was a hint of reserve , which did not dawn upon Marjorie until late that evening . At first she reproached herself for even imagining it , but as bedtime approached the conviction grew that when twelve o'clock came Mary would again resume her hostile attitude . `` It is time taps was sounded , '' reminded Mr. Dean , looking up from his book , as the grandfather 's clock in the living room pointed half past eleven . Mrs. Dean sat placidly reading a periodical . `` We 'll obey you , General , as soon as we 've finished our game . ''