about seven o'clock
Aunt Charlotte smiled tenderly at him through her tears ; she was going to church , poor soul , to pray for his recovery , though knowing quite well that what she called his recovery was beyond hope . Austin shot a brilliant smile at her in return , and Aunt Charlotte rushed out of the room choking . The day drew to its close , the darkness gathered , and Austin , who had been suffering considerably during the afternoon , was now easier . At about seven o'clock his aunt stole softly in , unable to keep away , and looked at him . His eyes were closed , and he appeared to be asleep . `` How has he been this afternoon ? '' she asked of Lubin in an undertone .