midnight
Mrs. Trent realized that it would be useless to make the party a surprise , for she had to have Dorian 's help in hanging out the lanterns , and he would necessarily see the unusual activity in front room and kitchen . Moreover , Dorian , unlike Uncle Zed , had not lost track of his birthdays , and especially this one which would make him a full-fledged citizen of these United States . The little party chatted on general topics for some time until Mrs. Trent , in big white apron , announced that supper was ready , and would they all come right in . Mrs. Trent always served her refreshments at the regular supper time and not near midnight , for she claimed that people of regular habits , which her guests were , are much better off by not having those habits broken into . `` Are we all here ? '' she asked , scanning them as they passed in . `` All but Carlia , '' she announced .