five o'clock in the afternoon
Again it was sweet spring-time at Thankful Rest . The garden was gay with tender leaves and blossoms , and the orchard white with bloom . There the birds made sweet melody as of yore ; and , as of yore , the sunny river brawled and whispered and played as it hurried through the meadow to the sea . At five o'clock in the afternoon Aunt Hepsy was in the kitchen , busy as usual ; her hands knew no idleness . Two teacups and a plate of cake stood on the table , the remnants of the early tea she and Lucy had taken a little while before . Presently a light step sounded in the lobby , and Lucy came in dressed for walking . Five years make a great change ; for she had grown from a slight , diminutive girl , to a tall , lithe , graceful young lady , just on the verge of womanhood .