about six o'clock
There was been frost next evening and Foster drove to the Crossing without his comrade , who thought it wiser to stay at home . The reunion he was going to attend was held annually by one or two mutual-improvement societies that combined to open their winter sessions . It had originally begun with a lecture on art or philosophy , but had degenerated into a supper and dance . Supper came early , because in Canada the meal is generally served about six o'clock . The wooden hall was decorated with flags and cedar boughs , and well filled with young men and women , besides a number of older citizens . The floor and music were good , and Foster enjoyed two dances before he met Carmen Austin . He had not sought her out , because she was surrounded by others , and he knew that if she wanted to dance with him she would let him know .