three o'clock
But the attrition of frequent intercourse did not wear off the sharp edge of her dislike . Wednesday afternoon came , and any evil auguries that had been drawn from the noontide crowing of restless village cocks was set at naught , for the weather was peerless : a midsummer sky and golden sunlight shone upon all things ; upon white-walled cottages and orchards , and gardens where the pure lilies were beginning to blow , upon the yellow-green oak leaves and deepening bloom of the beech , and the long straight roads cleaving the heart of the Forest . Violet had arranged to drive Mr. and Mrs. Scobel in her pony-carriage . She was at the door of their snug little Vicarage at three o'clock ; the vivacious Titmouse tossing his head and jingling his bit in a burst of pettishness at the aggravating behaviour of the flies . Mrs. Scobel came fluttering out , with the Vicar behind her . Both carried baskets , and behind them came an old servant , who had been Mrs. Scobel 's nurse , a woman with a figure like a hogshead of wine , and a funny little head at the top , carrying a third basket . `` The buns and bread have gone straight from the village , '' said the Vicar 's wife .