half past one
I came to ask permission to use the gymnasium , but you were out , so I came back and asked you just before school closed . '' `` Yes , I remember that you did , '' replied the principal . `` However , I want you to read this . '' Grace took the paper , looking rather perplexed , and read : `` Ask Miss Harlowe what she was doing in your office between half past one and a quarter of two yesterday . '' `` A PASSERBY . '' `` Why -- why -- '' stammered Grace , her eyes growing large with wonder . `` I do n't understand .