five in the afternoon
Cool jellies , and creams , and fruits , were on the table for dessert . Steaming dishes of meats and vegetables had been gladly sent away , but slightly partaken . The day was sultry . Even now , at five in the afternoon , the heat was hardly mitigated from that of midday . They lingered over their dessert , and spoke , rather languidly , of what might be done after . `` For me , '' said Mr. Rushleigh , `` I must go down to the mills again , before night . If either , or both of you , like a drive , I shall be glad to have you with me . ''