the hour of
six o'clock
She led me to the west end of the room , sat down on the cushioned bench , and drew in her skirts that I might sit close beside her . `` I want to tell you about the missive , Sir Karl , '' she whispered , laughing and shrugging her shoulders in great glee . `` Mother returned it to the box , and when I left you I hurried back and haunted the room , fearing that some one might meddle with the parchment . Near the hour of six o'clock father entered . I was sitting on the divan , and he sat down in his great chair , of course taking no notice of me -- I am too insignificant for so great a person to notice , except when he is compelled to do so . I was joyful in my heart , but I conjured up all my troubles that I might make myself weep . I feared to show any change in myself , so I sobbed aloud now and then , and soon father turned angrily toward me .