one o'clock
Lifting her hand in a weak , deprecating way , and then shrinking like one borne down by the shock of a great disappointment , she moved back from the excited woman and made her way to the hall , Mrs. Dinneford following and assailing her in passionate language . Edith was thrown completely off her guard by this unexpected scene . She did not stir from the spot where she stood on entering the parlor until the visitor was at the street door , whither her mother had followed the retreating figure . She did not hear the woman say in the tone of one who spoke more in command than entreaty , `` To-morrow at one o'clock , or take the consequences . '' `` It will be impossible to-morrow , '' Mrs. Dinneford whispered back , hurriedly ; `` I have been very ill , and have only just begun to ride out . It may be a week , but I 'll surely come . I 'm watched .