about four o'clock
At length , however , Mr. Griffiths , the steward , who was to preside on the occasion , succeeded in directing attention to Dr. Tatham , who stood uncovered ready to say grace , which he did as soon as there was a decent approach to silence ; he and those who had accompanied him , then returning to the Hall . What a prodigious onslaught was instantly made on the enormous masses of beef , boiled and roast -- the hams , the tongues , the fowls -- and all the innumerable other good things which were heaped upon those hospitable tables . There was ale _ ad libitum _ ; and , in addition to that , a bottle of port and of sherry to each mess of four , which latter luxuries , however , were generally reserved for the business which was to take place after the substantial part of the feast had been discussed . According to a previous arrangement , about four o'clock intimation was given to the vast party upon the terrace , that Lord Drelincourt , accompanied by his guests , would come and take their seats for a short time at the head of the tables -- his Lordship occupying the place of Mr. Griffiths . After a great bustle the requisite space was obtained at the head of the nearest table ; and presently Dr. Tatham led in Lady Drelincourt , and Mr. Delamere , Kate ; followed by Lord Drelincourt and all his visitors -- their arrival being greeted in the same enthusiastic manner as before . After they had selected their places , but before they had sat down , Dr. Tatham returned thanks amid a sudden and decorous silence ; and then all , having resumed their seats , had an opportunity of feasting their eager and fond eyes with the sight of those who had been so cruelly torn from them , and so long estranged . Lord Drelincourt sat at the head of the table , with Lady Drelincourt on one side and his sister upon the other , both looking exceedingly animated and beautiful .