four o’clock in the afternoon
But you must stay here always , and make a better woman of me . ' The compact was thus sealed , and Cytherea , in spite of the failure of her advertisements , was installed as a veritable Companion . And , once more in the history of human endeavour , a position which it was impossible to reach by any direct attempt , was come to by the seeker 's swerving from the path , and regarding the original object as one of secondary importance . The time of day was four o'clock in the afternoon . The place was the lady 's study or boudoir , Knapwater House . The person was Miss Aldclyffe sitting there alone , clothed in deep mourning . The funeral of the old Captain had taken place , and his will had been read .