midday
The children were all dressed in their black frocks , and looked neat and comfortable . George was in the room . It seemed to Effie as if she did not recognize his coat -- she wondered if it could possibly be a new one . She arrived at home a little before the midday dinner , and presently the landlady came in to lay the cloth . This used to be Agnes ' occupation . Effie did not say anything while the woman was in the room , but when she went out she remarked on this change . `` Oh , it 's all right , '' said Mrs. Staunton .