nearly four o'clock in the afternoon
Kildare mounted and rode homeward with us , though he had much farther to go than we . If he felt any annoyance at the small successes Isaacs had achieved during the evening , he was far too courteous a gentleman to show it ; and so , as we groped our way through the trees by the starlight , chiefly occupied in keeping our horses on their legs , the snatches of conversation that were possible were pleasant , if not animated , and there was a cordial `` Good-night '' on both sides , as we left Kildare to pursue his way alone . * * * * * It was nearly four o'clock in the afternoon when Isaacs and I emerged from the narrow road upon the polo ground . We were clad in the tight-fitting garments which are necessary for the game , and wrapped in light top-coats ; as we came out on the green we saw a number of other men in similar costume standing about , and a great many native grooms leading ponies up and down . Miss Westonhaugh was there in her gray habit and broad hat , and by her side , on foot , Lord Steepleton Kildare was making the most of his time , as he waited for the rest of the players . Mr. Currie Ghyrkins was ambling about on his broad little horse , and John Westonhaugh stood with his hands in his pockets and a large Trichinopoli cheroot between his lips , apparently gazing into space .