midday
It hardly seemed possible that so very obscure a hiding-place would be chosen under the circumstances , but at this last moment no chance could be neglected . Darsie rolled back her dainty net sleeve , plunged her hand deep into the hollow trunk , and flushed with triumph as her fingers came in contact with something loose and soft . It was not a paper parcel , it felt more like cloth -- cloth with knotted ends all ready to pull . Darsie pulled with a will , found an unexpected weight , put up a second hand to aid the first , and with a tug and a cloud of dust brought to light nothing more exciting than a workman 's handkerchief , knotted round a lumpy parcel which seemed obviously a midday meal . It was a disappointment , but the next moment an inherent sense of humour had discovered its possibilities of the position and gallantly accepted a second best . Since she might not possess a proper present , she could at least be the happy proprietor of a joke ! Into the middle of the ring of guests she would march , handkerchief bundle in hand , and to her credit would remain , if not the greatest applause , at least the biggest laugh of the afternoon !