seven o'clock before
As for Dora , she asked nothing better ; she would have been glad to spend whole days and nights talking with Paula , telling all the secrets of her heart , and hearing in return all her friend 's thoughts and wishes , hopes and fears . They both felt sure that they could never be tired of being together , and of sharing each other 's memories of the past and plans for the future . A long life-time would not be enough for them . It was seven o'clock before they again joined the family group which was gathered under the apple-tree ; and being late they slipped into their places very quickly , for the father had begun to cough significantly , to show that things were not just as they should be . During the meal , Rolf cast meaning looks across to Dora , that seemed to say , `` We two have a plan together next ; do n't forget ! '' While they all sat chatting merrily after supper was over , Rolf was watching the sky , to see when the first pale star should peep through the twilight amid the twigs of the apple-tree ; and as soon as he spied one , he came to Dora , saying `` Now , Dora , look , up there ! '' and he carried her off to the very farthest corner of the garden , to make sure that none of his brothers or sisters should interfere with them .