a
quarter past two
Lysbeth 's temper , always somewhat quick , was ruffled , and she showed it in her manner . `` I thought , cousins , that we were to meet at three , and the kirk clock yonder has just chimed half-past , '' she said , addressing them both , but looking -- not too sweetly -- at Dirk van Goorl . `` That 's right , cousin , '' answered Pieter , a pleasant-faced and alert young man , `` look at _ him _ , scold _ him _ , for he is to blame . Ever since a quarter past two have I -- I who must drive a sledge in the great race and am backed to win -- been waiting outside that factory in the snow , but , upon my honour , he did not appear until seven minutes since . Yes , we have done the whole distance in seven minutes , and I call that very good skating . '' `` I thought as much , '' said Lysbeth . `` Dirk can only keep an appointment with a church bell or a stadhuis chandelier . ''