three o'clock
It was to be a satisfying , whole-souled matter of half a day 's comradeship , almost like old times . So once more the roses graced the rooms , and a flaring pink bow adorned Spunkie 's fat neck ; and once more Bertram placed his latest `` Face of a Girl '' in the best possible light . There was still a difference , however , for this time Cyril did not bring any music down to the piano , nor display anywhere a copy of his newest book . The dinner was to be at three o'clock , but by special invitation the guests were to arrive at twelve ; and promptly at the appointed hour they came . `` There , this is something like , '' exulted Bertram , when the ladies , divested of their wraps , toasted their feet before the open fire in his den . `` Indeed it is , for now I 've time to see everything -- everything you 've done since I 've been gone , '' cried Billy , gazing eagerly about her . `` Hm-m ; well , THAT was n't what I meant , '' shrugged Bertram .