midday
Yet Sally was not sure when she would tell her story . She had no desire to make a confession to Alice , and Aunt Patricia was not to be considered . If only she might arrange to wait until Mrs. Burton 's return from her journey into southern France . It was after the hour for their midday dinner when Sally finally arrived at the farmhouse ; however , she was able to reach her own room without any questions being asked concerning her delay . Undressing slowly with the idea of lying down for a little while before facing her friends , Sally was interrupted for the second time that day by the unexpected appearance of her sister . On this occasion Alice 's expression made any further discussion not only unnecessary but impossible . `` Will you come with me , please , to Aunt Patricia 's room ? ''