five
o'clock
`` You do not show your appreciation very enthusiastically , '' said the president , as he moved off to speak to some other guests who were just coming into the gallery . Next day , early in the afternoon , Lacroix started for his long walk up Highgate Hill , with M. Bois-le-Duc 's letter safely in his pocket this time . He was a good walker and used to outdoor exercise , and enjoyed the prospect of the long tramp this bright summer day . He did not hurry himself , for there was plenty of time before five o'clock , and he stopped every few moments to examine some wayside plant , and to listen with the ardor of a true lover of nature to the merry voices of the thrush and blackbird singing a gladsome carol . And he was often tempted by the fascinating beauty of the quiet landscape , as he left the grimy smoke of London far behind him and ascended into the pure fresh country , to take out his sketch-book and dot down dainty little glimpses , thus laying up a store for future work . But at length he reached number 17 , The Grove , and the door was opened by the trim little maid-servant , who replied , in answer to his inquiry -- `` Yes , sir , Mademoiselle Laurentia is at home . Please walk up this way . ''