five o'clock
The stout girl 's mood seemed to have changed , however . She answered her companions ' gay sallies rather abstractedly , with the air of one whose thoughts were anywhere but on her guests . Several times Grace glanced up to find Elfreda 's eyes fixed reflectively upon her . When , at five o'clock , she announced her intention of going for a walk before dinner , Elfreda gave her another peculiar look and announced her intention of accompanying her . Anne and Miriam , who had elected to occupy the time before dinner in writing to the Southards , declined Grace 's invitation , and as the two girls walked briskly down the street , Elfreda breathed a deep sigh of relief . `` With all due respect to Miriam and Anne , I am glad they did n't join us , '' she said coolly . `` What is on your mind now ? ''