quarter to twelve
Rebecca 's mood was above and beyond all practical details . She sat silent , her heart so full of grateful joy that she could hardly remember the words of her dialogue . At recess she bore herself modestly , notwithstanding her great triumph , while in the general atmosphere of good will the Smellie-Randall hatchet was buried and Minnie gathered maple boughs and covered the ugly stove with them , under Rebecca 's direction . Miss Dearborn dismissed the morning session at quarter to twelve , so that those who lived near enough could go home for a change of dress . Emma Jane and Rebecca ran nearly every step of the way , from sheer excitement , only stopping to breathe at the stiles . `` Will your aunt Mirandy let you wear your best , or only your buff calico ? '' asked Emma Jane .