nearly ten o'clock
Then Eddy reappeared with the dime securely clutched , and inquired anxiously of Charlotte if she cared whether he bought soda or candy with it . Young Eastman ran after him down the walk and had a whispered conference . When the boy returned , which was speedily , he had a letter for his sister Ina and a box of the most extravagant candy which Banbridge afforded . The young people sat chatting and laughing and nibbling sweets until nearly ten o'clock . Then young Eastman took his leave . He was rather desirous to be gone before Captain Carroll returned . Although Carroll always treated him with the most punctilious courtesy , even going out of his way to speak to him , the young man always felt a curious discomfort , as if he realized some covert disapprobation on the elder 's part .