ten at night
Max came and put his head on her knee , to be petted , and Lois 's thoughts wandered off to the dinner party , and Mr. Denner 's singing , and what good things Miss Deborah cooked , and how much his aunts must miss Gifford ; so that she did not even hear the front door open , or know that Dick Forsythe had entered , until she heard Max snarl , and some one said in a tone which lacked its usual assurance , `` I -- I hope I 'm not disturbing you , Miss Lois ? '' She was on her feet before he had a chance to help her rise , and looked at him with the frankest astonishment and dismay . What would aunt Deely say , what would Miss Deborah think ! A young woman receiving a gentleman alone after ten at night ! `` Father is not home yet , '' she said hastily , so confused and startled she scarcely knew what she was saying . `` How dark it is in here ! The fire has dazzled my eyes .