a quarter to one
It was only fifteen minutes past twelve , and it was understood that Harry Greenacre was not to begin till the half-hour . Miss Thorne returned to her drawing-room rather quicker than was her wont , fearing that the countess might come and find none to welcome her . She need not have hurried , for no one was there . At half-past twelve she peeped into the kitchen ; at a quarter to one she was joined by her brother ; and just then the first fashionable arrival took place . Mrs. Clantantram was announced . No announcement was necessary , indeed , for the good lady 's voice was heard as she walked across the courtyard to the house , scolding the unfortunate postilion who had driven her from Barchester . At the moment Miss Thorne could not but be thankful that the other guests were more fashionable and were thus spared the fury of Mrs. Clantantram 's indignation .