eleven o'clock
It had become known in some way that Mr. Abbot was failing rapidly , and had requested that his daughter might be married before his death . He was much respected in the hamlet , for he had always been the courteous gentleman , while Virgie was regarded almost in the light of a young princess , and thus these humble people were prompted to show their sympathy and good will in this delicate manner . The young bride-elect was touched to the heart by this tribute , and with her own hands arranged the lovely flowers to furnish the room where she was to be married . Then she went up stairs , and was seen no more until the hour set for the ceremony , which was eleven o'clock . Meanwhile Chi Lu and an elderly woman , who had once been very kind to Virgie when she was ill , and had been asked to `` come and help for the day , '' were very busily engaged in the small kitchen , arranging a repast which was to be served later in the day . Sir William was determined that the occasion should be made as cheerful as circumstances would allow , and had ordered from the city every delicacy which his fertile brain could suggest , and thus a `` wedding breakfast , '' such as had never been known in that region before , was in process of preparation . At eleven o'clock the happy groom made his appearance and sent Margery Follet , the woman before mentioned , to Virgie 's door to say that he was ready and awaiting her .