ten minutes to eight
Oh , horrors , why would the Rickettses and Mrs. Jones 's three boys choose the path through the shrubbery to approach the house ! The morning room , where Helen was taking her tea , looked out on the shrubbery , and although it was now quite dark in the world of nature , those dreadful rough boys would crack boughs , and stumble and titter as they walked . Polly 's face grew hotter and her hands colder ; never did she bless her sister 's rather slow and unsuspicious nature more than at this moment , for Helen heard no boughs crack , nor did the stealthy , smothered laughter , so distinctly audible to poor Polly , reach her ears . At ten minutes to eight Helen rose from the table . `` I 'm going up to Nurse to show her what things I have bought for baby , '' she said . `` We are going to short-coat baby next week , so I have a good deal to show her , and I wo n't be down again for a little bit . '' `` All right , '' said Polly , `` I have plenty to do ; do n't worry about me till you see me , Nell . ''