Fifteen minutes past four
Oh , my grief and conscience , '' fluttered Aunt Hannah 's voice across the wires as Billy snapped the receiver into place . For the second time that day Billy backed palpitatingly against the wall . Her eyes sought the clock fearfully . Fifteen minutes past four . She had an hour and three quarters . She could , of course , telephone Bertram to dine Calderwell at a club or some hotel . But to do this now , the very first time , when it had been her own suggestion that he `` bring them home '' -- no , no , she could not do that !