midnight
`` I thought you would want to rush into Phebe 's arms the instant she got done , '' said Aunt Plenty , innocently wondering at the whims girls took into their heads . `` So I should if I consulted my own wishes , but as Phebe asked to be let alone I want to gratify her , '' answered Rose , making the best excuse she could . `` A little piqued , '' thought the doctor , fancying he understood the case . As the old lady 's rheumatism forbade their driving about till midnight , home was reached much too soon , Rose thought , and tripped away to warn the lovers the instant she entered the house . But study , parlor , and boudoir were empty ; and , when Jane appeared with cake and wine , she reported that `` Miss Phebe went right upstairs and wished to be excused , please , being very tired . '' `` That is n't at all like Phebe I hope she is n't ill , '' began Aunt Plenty , sitting down to toast her feet . `` She may be a little hysterical , for she is a proud thing and represses her emotions as long as she can .