6 p.m.
Not a word leaked out as to the true nature of the programme . Meta , indeed , went about with rather mincing steps , while Veronica seemed to affect a truculent attitude ; but whether this was the result of learning parts , or was put on with deliberate intention to deceive , the wide-awake members of the Fifth could not determine . The entertainment was to be held on Saturday , when , as there was no preparation , the whole evening could be devoted to amusement . It was announced to begin at 6 p.m. , with box office open at 5.45 . The school turned up with prompt punctuality , and would have scrambled for the door , if Barbara , seated at the receipt of custom , had not insisted upon their forming an orderly and orthodox queue . She took their shillings in a business-like manner . `` Programmes -- hand painted -- sixpence each .