a quarter to six
And , in the absence of the matron , it was of course natural that conversation should turn to subjects which could not be discussed as freely or pointedly in her presence . Miss Desire Peasley began the discussion . She looked at the ancient clock on the mantel . The time was a quarter to six . `` H 'm , '' sniffed Miss Peasley , with a one-sided smile . `` I suppose likely the great event 's took place long afore this . They 're married and off on their honeymoon by now ... .