ten o'clock
But all too soon that happiness was to be rudely shattered , and that in a way entirely unforeseen . Like many another family on the strength of the regiment , the Spences , for lack of accommodation in barracks , were lodged in apartments in the city . One dreary winter evening , when little Annie was about a year old , Penny sat at her knitting by the fireside , the baby in her cot close by , fast asleep . Spence had been taking part in a concert , and was later than usual in coming in , for it was past ten o'clock . In the silence Penny heard the sound of footsteps ascending the stairs outside ; they halted at her door , and there was a gentle rapping . She rose and opened the door in response . On the landing without stood a woman , whom she had never before seen -- a shabby-looking woman , dressed in soiled and worn garments , which had once been bright and stylish .