Datasets:

community-datasets

/

gutenberg_time

like 7

Follow

Community Datasets 5

4447

5

five o'clock

I crossed the ground she had traversed , noting every feature surrounding it , the curving wheel-track , the thin prickly sand-herbage , the wave - mounds , the sparse wet shells and pebbles , the gleaming flatness of the water , and the vast horizon-boundary of pale flat land level with shore , looking like a dead sister of the sea . By a careful examination of my watch and the sun 's altitude , I was able to calculate what would , in all likelihood , have been his height above yonder waves when her chair was turned toward the city , at a point I reached in the track . But of the matter then simultaneously occupying my mind , to recover which was the second supreme task I proposed to myself-of what . I also was thinking upon the stroke of five o'clock , I could recollect nothing . I could not even recollect whether I happened to be looking on sun and waves when she must have had them full and glorious in her face . With the heartiest consent I could give , and a blank cheque , my father returned to England to hire forthwith a commodious yacht , fitted and manned . Before going he discoursed of prudence in our expenditure ; though not for the sake of the mere money in hand , which was a trifle , barely more than the half of my future income ; but that the squire , should he by and by bethink him of inspecting our affairs , might perceive we were not spendthrifts .

4447

12

the fall of the winter noon

So profoundly penetrated with thoughtfulness was the tone of his voice that I could not take umbrage . The attempt to analyze his signification cost me an aching forehead , perhaps because I knew it too acutely . She was on horseback ; I on foot , Schwartz for sole witness , and a wide space of rolling silent white country around us . We had met in the fall of the winter noon by accident . ` You like my Professor ? ' said Ottilia . ` I do : I respect him for his learning . '

28999

12

midday

And here is Hendon , and it is time for us to dress . '' Daisy got up and kissed her aunt with a quick , trembling caress . `` I think you are a perfect darling , '' she said . The Dover boat , midday service , was on the point of starting from the quay at Calais , and luggage was being swung on to it in square trucks , the passengers having already embarked . The day before a midsummer storm had vexed the soul of the silver streak , which had turned to a grey pewter streak of a peculiarly streaky nature , with white tops to the waves that slung themselves over the head of the pier . Cabin-boys and stewards were making horrible dispositions of tinware , and the head steward was on the verge of distraction , since the whole world seemed to have chosen this particular day to return to England , and the whole world , with an eye on the Channel , desired private cabins , which were numerically less than the demand . At the moment he was trying to keep calm before the infuriated questions of a Frenchwoman who believed herself to be speaking English .

28999

12

midday

Sorrows and trials she had had in plenty in her life , but these the sweetness of her nature had transformed , so that from being things difficult to bear , she had built up with them her own character . Sorrow had increased her own power of sympathy ; out of trials she had learnt patience ; and failure and the gradual sinking of one she had loved into the bottomless slough of evil habit had but left her with an added dower of pity and tolerance . So the past had no sting left , and if iron had ever entered into her soul it now but served to make it strong . She was still young , too ; it was not near sunset with her yet , nor even midday , and the future that , humanly speaking , she counted to be hers was almost dazzling in its brightness . For love had dawned for her again , and no uncertain love , wrapped in the mists of memory , but one that had ripened through liking and friendship and intimacy into the authentic glory . He was in England , too ; she was going back to him . And before very long she would never go away from him again .

28999

0

midnight

Jeannie joined her friend in the window-seat . `` Yes , just the same , '' she said . There was silence for a little while . An hour had passed since they began to talk , but it was still short of midnight , and the hansoms and motors still swept about the square like a throng of sonorous fireflies . Just opposite a big house flared with lit windows , and the sound of the band came loudly across the open space , a little mellowed by the distance , but with the rhythm of its music intact . `` Oh , I could get into a ball-dress and go and dance now for lightness of heart , '' said Jeannie . `` But I wo n't ; I will do something much nicer , and that is I will hear from you the news of your year .

28999

5

five o'clock

It looks so welcoming . Books , too ; everybody likes a book or two in his room . It 's so easy to do little things like that , and people appreciate it enormously . There 's the whole of the afternoon before us ; nobody will arrive till the five o'clock train . '' `` But I thought you said you expected him -- '' began Gladys . `` Darling , pray do n't criticize my last remark but three . Every remark becomes obsolete as soon as another remark is made . ''

28999

4

four o'clock

Yet some little spirit of companionship had escaped her again , when she quoted the line , `` In the darkness thick and hot . '' And then , after that , she had walked back to the house , made him play billiards with Daisy , and had gone upstairs at the earliest possible opportunity . Nobody with the slightest prospect of winning his case could have accused Tom Lindfield of being sensitive in his perceptions , but nobody without the certainty of losing it could have accused him of not being fairly sound in his conclusions . What had happened to Mrs. Halton to make her so different to him -LRB- and , for that matter , to everybody else -RRB- since four o'clock that afternoon he did not try to decide , since he had no means of knowing . But what he did know was that this was a woman of enchanting moods . At one time she was good comrade , then she was friend , then for some reason she was some sort of shadow of these excellent things . They were there , but they were obscured by something else .

28999

10

a quarter to eleven

`` I am I , and I am yours . Never doubt that . '' All that day there was no possible cause for his doubting it . The conspirator-plan succeeded to admiration , and Lord Lindfield and Daisy , with a somewhat faint-intentioned Gladys , had waited in the hall till a quarter to eleven . Then it was discovered that Jeannie had not been seen in the house since ten , and Gladys , victorious over her faint intentions , had stopped at home , while Daisy and Lord Lindfield walked rapidly to church , arriving there in the middle of the psalms . Jeannie had been gaily apologetic afterwards . She had not heard at breakfast that anybody except herself and Mr. Braithwaite meant to go to church , and , coming home , she paired herself off with Daisy .

28999

8

ten minutes past eight

Lord Lindfield , indeed , alone supported Jeannie . `` I want ten minutes , '' he said ; `` neither more nor less . Jim , it 's time for you to go , else you will keep us waiting for dinner . I see that Mrs. Halton and I will be left alone at ten minutes past eight , and I at a quarter past . '' Jeannie heard this perfectly , but she turned quickly to Lady Nottingham . `` Alice , is it true that you have a post out after dinner ? '' she said .

28999

5

five o'clock

It might have been by Gad , but it was by Worth . Four shades of grey , and pearls . Mrs. Beaumont distinctly thought that this was not the sort of dress to dash into the faces of a quiet country party . It was like letting off rockets at a five o'clock tea . Only a woman could dissect the enormity of it ; men just stared . `` I know I am not more than one minute late , '' she said . `` Lord Lindfield , Alice has told me to lead you to your doom , which is to take me in .

19398

8

eight o'clock

At last the day came when everything was complete , the water casks filled , and the last packet and bale stored away in the hold ; and even Reuben Hawkshaw admitted that there was nothing else that he could think of , requisite either for the safety or navigation of the ship , or the provisioning or health of the crew . The order was passed round for all the old hands to be aboard before sunset , that evening , together with those who had been openly engaged to fill up the vacancies . As for the rest , the twelve recruiters each received private orders . Three of them were to bring down the men they had engaged to the wharf , abreast of the Swan , at eight o'clock ; and to go off in the boat which would be awaiting them there , under charge of Master Standing . Three others were to come half an hour later . The other six were to bring down their men at daybreak -- so that all would get on board unnoticed . The last meal at Master Diggory 's was but a dull one .

19398

0

midnight

You have only yielded to my solicitations , and if we go to our death it is our choosing , and none of thine . '' `` Should the Swan come back without you , Reuben -- as may possibly be , for if there be any danger you are sure to expose yourself in the front of it -- Roger shall be as a son to me ; and shall either in time have a ship to command , and a share in her , as thou hast ; and he shall come in our business , when he has had enough of adventure at sea , and is willing to settle down on land . '' Reuben wrung his cousin 's hand silently , and then said : `` Let us take one more glass of strong water , Diggory , and then get a few hours ' sleep before morning . It is past midnight now , and I must be up by four ; for at that hour the boat must go off for the first batch of our new hands . '' Day broke , just as the last batch of men were brought on board . As soon as these had gone below the whistle was sounded , the old crew came up on deck , and the preparations for making sail commenced . The anchor was hove short , the lashings of the sails were loosened , the flags run up to the mast heads , the last casks and bales lowered into the hold , the hatches put on , and the decks washed down .

19398

12

midday

In a cabin underneath this , the three petty officers and twenty of the sailors lived together , the main body of the crew occupying the raised forecastle and the cabin underneath it . The galley was forward , built up against the forecastle , and thus sheltered from heavy seas which might sweep the waist of the vessel . Four small cannon were mounted on the poop , two on the forecastle , the six larger guns were in the waist -- three on either side . The breeze freshened as the Swan drew out from under the shelter of the land , and by midday the shore had faded from the sight . The crew had by this time settled down in their places , and sat in groups on deck , some overhauling the contents of their sea bags , looking over their clothes , and setting to , with needle and thread , to make such repairs as were needed . Some of the new hands were leaning over the side , wishing heartily that they were on shore again . Those who had made voyages were talking to their companions about the various ports at which they might touch , and the sights they would behold .

19398

12

midday

A day 's march through the mountains brought them into a lofty plateau , some seven thousand feet above the sea . Here were wide-spreading forests of trees , which Roger recognized as large oaks and cypress . Around the villages were clearings , and whereas in the plains below maize was chiefly cultivated , the largest proportion of the fields , here , were devoted to plantations of the aloe or maguey . Here , even at midday , the temperature was not too hot to be pleasant ; while at night the cold was great , and Roger was glad to pile the thick quilted rugs over him . After traversing this plateau for some distance , they came upon another range of hills , far loftier than those they had before crossed , and vastly higher than anything Roger had ever before beheld in his travels . These mountains were , the merchant told him , the Cordilleras ; they extended from unknown regions in the north through Anahuac to the south . The snow never melted upon the summits , and several of the highest of these were terrible volcanoes , whose eruptions were dreaded by the whole nation .

19398

12

noon

Seen through the clear mountain air it seemed but three or four miles away , and Roger had difficulty in believing the merchants , when they assured him that it was fully twenty . This was Tepeaca . The slaves , wearied as they were , quickened in their pace ; and in two hours they emerged from the mountain gorges onto the temperate plateau . Here they halted for some hours near a post house , a courier being sent on to Tepeaca , to inform the king 's envoys that they had arrived thus far ; and to ask whether they should proceed at noon , when the slaves had rested , or make their entry into the town in the morning . In a little over four hours the answer was received . The merchants were directed to wait where they were until three hours after noon , then to move forward until they arrived within eight miles of the town , and then to halt for the night , and to start again at sunrise next morning . Roger was as glad as were the slaves that he had not another fifteen miles ' march before him , for the journey had been a most fatiguing one .

19398

15

three hours after noon

The slaves , wearied as they were , quickened in their pace ; and in two hours they emerged from the mountain gorges onto the temperate plateau . Here they halted for some hours near a post house , a courier being sent on to Tepeaca , to inform the king 's envoys that they had arrived thus far ; and to ask whether they should proceed at noon , when the slaves had rested , or make their entry into the town in the morning . In a little over four hours the answer was received . The merchants were directed to wait where they were until three hours after noon , then to move forward until they arrived within eight miles of the town , and then to halt for the night , and to start again at sunrise next morning . Roger was as glad as were the slaves that he had not another fifteen miles ' march before him , for the journey had been a most fatiguing one . He thought that the absolute distance traversed did not exceed thirty miles , but owing to the difficulties of the road , and the care that had to be taken in traversing it at night , even with the assistance of the torches carried by the soldiers of the caravan , it had taken them twenty hours , including occasional halts , to perform the journey . An abundance of food was brought in by the neighboring villagers , and the merchants issued an extra supply of cocoa to the slaves ; and when the march was resumed , late in the afternoon , the latter had completely recovered from their fatigue .

19398

12

noon

A strong force at once landed on the mainland , and threw up a fortified camp . The Mexicans came in , in crowds , with fruit , vegetables , flowers , and other articles , which they bartered with the Spaniards . They brought news that the Mexican governor of the province intended to visit them , the next day . Before noon , he arrived with his numerous suite . A banquet was served to them , and then , in answer to the cazique 's inquiries as to the objects of their visit , he was informed by Cortez that he was the subject of a great monarch beyond the seas , who ruled over a vast empire ; and that , hearing of the greatness of the Mexican Emperor , he had sent him as an envoy , with a present in token of his goodwill , and a message which he must deliver in person . The cazique said that he would send couriers with the royal gift to Montezuma ; and that , as soon as he had learned his will , he would communicate it . He then presented ten slave loads of fine cottons , mantles of rich feather work , and a basket filled with gold ornaments to Cortez ; who then handed over the presents intended for Montezuma .

19398

12

noon

Roger at once fell back into the crowd , and soon took an opportunity to extricate himself from it , and to go down a side street . He and Bathalda then ascended to the top of the wall , where they were likely to be undisturbed , and waited there for an hour . They then went back to the palace . The square in the front of it was almost deserted now ; for the Spaniards had retired , half an hour before , and were not likely to appear again until the evening ; especially as it was known that , at noon , there was to be a great council held in the palace . Ten minutes later Malinche appeared at the entrance . As soon as her eyes fell on Roger she raised her hand and , leaving Bathalda , he at once went up to her . The two sentinels looked with some surprise at this tall native , but as they saw that he was known to Malinche , they offered no opposition to his entering the palace with her .

19398

0

midnight

He would trust the caziques , for men of rank in whatever country are faithful to their word , and do not pretend friendship when they mean hostility . Were Montezuma guided by them , there would be no fear of treachery ; but as he has given himself to the priests , and they can , by means of the oracles , persuade him to almost anything , Cortez feels that the danger is great . '' `` Well now , we had better to rest , '' Cacama said , rising . `` You are to start with the first streak of light , so as to be back before the sun is high , and it is long past midnight now . `` Cuitcatl , it would , I think , be well for you to accompany our friend . A rumor may have got abroad that he is again our guest , and those who longed for his blood , before , may long for it again . I would not that he should cross the lake unattended . ''

19398

10

ten o'clock

`` I will be going . Roger Hawkshaw will help you , '' Cuitcatl said . `` It will take some time for Bathalda to get the litters and the men . `` It is now ten o'clock . In three hours the litters shall be outside the little gate of the garden , and I will bring six porters to the private door at the foot of the stairs . '' `` That will be enough , '' the queen said . `` Two will be ample for our garments , and you and Roger Hawkshaw can take the jewels ; which , when we start , can go in the litters with us . ''

19398

2

two o'clock

He found the boatmen asleep in their canoe . As soon as he aroused them , they seized their paddles and , on his taking his seat , pushed off . `` There is no occasion for speed , '' he said . `` It is but two o'clock now , and it is of no use our reaching Mexico until daybreak ; for the gates of the palace will be closed , and there will be no getting in , dressed as I am , until sunrise . '' They therefore paddled quietly across the lake , often resting for a considerable time , and so arranging that they approached the city at the same time as a number of market boats , from the villages on the lake . `` Well , '' Malinche asked with a smile , as he met her in one of the courts , as he entered , `` and where is your lady love ? '' `` I have not brought her here , '' he said , rather indignantly .

19398

0

midnight

A portable bridge had been prepared for crossing the canals which intersected the causeway ; the intention being that it should be laid across a canal , that the army should pass over it , and that it should then be carried forward to the next gap in the causeway . This was a most faulty arrangement , necessitating frequent and long delays , and entailing almost certain disaster . Had three such portable bridges been constructed , the column could have crossed the causeway with comparatively little risk ; and there was no reason why these bridges should not have been constructed , as they could have been carried , without difficulty , by the Tlascalans . At midnight the troops were in readiness for the march . Mass was performed by Father Olmedo ; and at one o'clock on July 1st , 1520 , the Spaniards sallied out from the fortress that they had so stoutly defended . Silence reigned in the city . As noiselessly as possible , the troops made their way down the broad street , expecting every moment to be attacked ; but even the tramping of the horses , and the rumbling of the baggage wagons and artillery did not awake the sleeping Mexicans , and the head of the column arrived at the head of the causeway before they were discovered .

19398

1

one o'clock on July 1st, 1520

This was a most faulty arrangement , necessitating frequent and long delays , and entailing almost certain disaster . Had three such portable bridges been constructed , the column could have crossed the causeway with comparatively little risk ; and there was no reason why these bridges should not have been constructed , as they could have been carried , without difficulty , by the Tlascalans . At midnight the troops were in readiness for the march . Mass was performed by Father Olmedo ; and at one o'clock on July 1st , 1520 , the Spaniards sallied out from the fortress that they had so stoutly defended . Silence reigned in the city . As noiselessly as possible , the troops made their way down the broad street , expecting every moment to be attacked ; but even the tramping of the horses , and the rumbling of the baggage wagons and artillery did not awake the sleeping Mexicans , and the head of the column arrived at the head of the causeway before they were discovered . Then , as the advanced guard were preparing to lay the portable bridge across the first opening , some Aztec sentinels gave the alarm .

19398

0

midnight

Impossible as it seems , the Spaniards may yet extricate themselves from the toils ; in which case I should join them . If not , and I find my escape by the coast cut off , by the rising of the tribes there , the only thing that I can see is to take to the mountains ; and to live there , as I did with Bathalda , on the proceeds of the chase . I might then , perhaps , in time make my way to people in the far north , who have not such reason as they have here for hating a man with a white skin ; or I might wait until the Spaniards send another expedition , to carry out what Cortez has failed to accomplish . '' Leaving their fires burning , the remains of the Spanish army marched , at midnight , from the temple where they had enjoyed rest , and had recruited their strength and spirits . The sick and wounded were placed in the center , and carried on litters , or on the backs of the porters ; while others , who were strong enough to sit upright , rode on the horses behind the mounted soldiers . All night the march continued without disturbance ; but in the morning , large parties of natives were seen moving about . Tlacopan lay on the most westerly point of the lake , and the most direct route of the Spaniards would have been to keep along by its margin ; but had they done so , they would have been liable to attack from the capital ; as the troops could have poured out across the causeway to Tepejacac , and headed them there .

19398

20

eight o'clock in the evening

The latter rose to his feet and , with the aid of the native , unfastened the cords that bound his ankles together . For half an hour he paced up and down the chamber , to restore the circulation to his feet . Then the guard replaced the cords , but did it in such a way that , though they seemed as tight and secure as before , they would at a slight effort fall off , and leave him free . At eight o'clock in the evening the guard was relieved . He had told Roger that he was to listen for the cry of an owl outside , twice repeated ; and that upon hearing this , he would know that his friends were without . Roger listened anxiously for the password from his new guard ; but as it did not come , he concluded that Cuitcatl had not been able to bribe him , and that he must himself overpower the man . The Aztec placed himself at the loophole , and stood looking out ; turning , from time to time , to see by the light of the torch , which was fixed close to where Roger was lying , that he was making no attempt to release himself from his bonds .

19398

0

nearly midnight

He had told Roger that he was to listen for the cry of an owl outside , twice repeated ; and that upon hearing this , he would know that his friends were without . Roger listened anxiously for the password from his new guard ; but as it did not come , he concluded that Cuitcatl had not been able to bribe him , and that he must himself overpower the man . The Aztec placed himself at the loophole , and stood looking out ; turning , from time to time , to see by the light of the torch , which was fixed close to where Roger was lying , that he was making no attempt to release himself from his bonds . It was not until nearly midnight that Roger heard the expected signal . No sooner was the second call given , than he pulled the knot which kept the cords together , raised himself noiselessly to his feet , and sprang upon the Aztec . Taken by surprise , the man was no more than a child in Roger 's strong grasp . In a moment he was thrown down , his cloth was twisted round his mouth , so as to prevent any cry from escaping him , and his arms were bound behind him with Roger 's rope .

19398

0

midnight

I trust that you may live , and be happy , yet . '' `` Let us not stand here talking , '' the young cazique said . `` It is not as it was before . Then you might walk through the city at midnight , without meeting with a single person . We sleep no longer now , but make nightly attacks on the Spaniards ; and at any moment bodies of troops may come along . '' The little party moved forward , and in a minute descended the steps . Bathalda took his place in a small canoe lying there .

19398

9

nine o'clock

`` The cazique has sent off a messenger for a party of his people to meet you . A boat will be in readiness to take you across the lake , at sunset . You will be carried in litters from the landing place to his palace . '' This programme was carried out and , by nine o'clock that evening , Roger and Amenche were both settled in luxurious apartments in the cazique 's palace . Cortez , now recovered from his wounds , prepared for a fresh advance ; which was this time to be conducted in a different manner . Against so stubborn and active a foe the advance must be irresistible , steady , and continued . In future , no step backward was to be taken .

5980

0

Midnight

Given a character or two and a situation , the beginning of one of those romances is , or was , pretty likely to be something like this : `` It was a black night . Heavy clouds had obscured the setting sun and now , as the clock in the great stone tower boomed twelve , the darkness was pitchy . '' That is a good safe beginning . Midnight , a stone tower , a booming clock , and darkness make an appeal to the imagination . On a night like that almost anything may happen . A reader of one of my romances -- and readers there must be , for the things did , and still do , sell to some extent -- might be fairly certain that something WOULD happen before the end of the second page . After that the somethings continued to happen as fast as I could invent them .

5980

6

six o'clock

`` Yes , '' drily ; `` and we saw Sothern and Marlowe and had dinner at the Holland . The rest of the time we talked shop . That was the first visit . The second was more exciting still ; we talked shop ALL the time and you took the six o'clock train home again . '' `` You 're wrong there . I saw the new loan collections at the Metropolitan and heard Ysaye play at Carnegie Hall . I did n't start for home until the next day . ''

5980

11

a quarter to twelve

It was not much of a story , and , as I read it , I kept thinking that I could write as good a one . I had had such ideas before , but nothing had come of them . This time , however , I determined to try . In half an hour I had evolved a plot , such as it was , and at a quarter to twelve that night the story was finished . A highwayman was its hero and its scene the great North Road in England . My conceptions of highwaymen and the North Road -- of England , too , for that matter -- were derived from something I had read at some time or other , I suppose ; they must have been . At any rate , I finished that story , addressed the envelope to the editor of the magazine and dropped the envelope and its inclosure in the corner mail-box before I went to bed .

5980

3

three o'clock

It seems to me that we did nothing else . I bought what I needed the very first day , clothes , hat , steamer coat and traveling cap included . It did not take me long ; fortunately I am of the average height and shape and the salesmen found me easy to please . My shopping tour was ended by three o'clock and I spent the remainder of the afternoon at a bookseller 's . There was a set of `` Early English Poets '' there , nineteen little , fat , chunky volumes , not new and shiny and grand , but middle-aged and shabby and comfortable , which appealed to me . The price , however , was high ; I had the uneasy feeling that I ought not to afford it . Then the bookseller himself , who also was fat and comfortably shabby , and who had beguiled from me the information that I was about to travel , suggested that the `` Poets '' would make very pleasant reading en route .

5980

5

five o'clock

she sniffed , `` that 's the first time I ever knew you to give in that there WAS a Little Frank . All right , I sha 'n' t say any more , but I hope the foreign poorhouses are more comfortable than ours , that 's all . If you make me keep on this way , I 'll fetch up in one before the first month 's over . '' We left for New York on the five o'clock train . Packing those `` Early English Poets '' was a confounded nuisance . They had to be stuffed here , there and everywhere amid my wearing apparel and Hephzibah prophesied evil to come . `` Books are the worse things goin ' to make creases , '' she declared .

5980

12

twelve o'clock

`` Holland is pretty wet , so they say , but we should be able to find some dry spots . '' She did not laugh . `` You know what I mean , '' she observed . `` To-morrow night at twelve o'clock we shall be far out on the vasty deep . '' `` We shall be on the ` Princess Eulalie , ' '' I answered . `` Go to sleep . '' Neither of us spoke the truth .

5980

12

Twelve o'clock

`` What ? '' he queried . `` The ` Princess Eulalie ' ? Twelve o'clock , I believe , I 'm not sure . '' `` You 're not sure ! And it is after nine now . It strikes me that -- '' `` Never mind what strikes you .

5980

12

noon

`` Lunch together ! '' gasped Hephzy . `` Why , Mr. Campbell ! the ` Princess Eulalie ' sails at noon . You said so yourself ! '' Jim smiled . `` I know I did , '' he replied , `` but that is immaterial .

5980

1

one o'clock

Jim smiled . `` I know I did , '' he replied , `` but that is immaterial . You are not concerned with the ` Princess Eulalie . ' Your passages are booked on the ` Plutonia ' and she does n't leave her dock until one o'clock to-morrow morning . We will meet here for lunch at twelve-thirty . Come , Kent . '' I did n't attempt an answer .

5980

16

four in the afternoon

`` Bring me tea , '' she said to our table steward on the third morning . `` I 've tried most every kind of coffee and lived through it , but I 'm gettin ' too old to keep on experimentin ' with my health . Bring me tea and I 'll try to forget what time it is . '' We had tea at breakfast , therefore , and tea at four in the afternoon . Hephzibah and I learned to take it with the rest . She watched her fellow-passengers , however , and as usual had something to say concerning their behavior . `` Did you hear that , Hosy ? ''

5980

0

about midnight

`` Yes . But we did have extraordinarily good weather for that . '' `` Why , not particularly good . We slowed down about midnight . There was a real fog then and the glass was low . The second officer told me it dropped very suddenly and there was a heavy sea running . For an hour between twelve and one we were making not much more than half our usual speed . ''

5980

12

noon

And you think our run will be better than five hundred and eighty ? '' `` It should be , unless there is a remarkable change . This ship makes over six hundred , day after day , in good weather . She should do at least six hundred by to-morrow noon , unless there is a sudden change , as I said . '' `` But six hundred would be -- it would be the high field , by Jove ! '' `` Anything over five hundred and ninety-four would be that . The numbers are very low to-night .

5980

11

nearly eleven o'clock

I sha 'n' t be surprised at anything anymore . I 'm in England and on my way to London ; that 's surprise enough . NOTHIN ' could be more wonderful than that . '' In Which We Are Received at Bancroft 's Hotel and I Receive a Letter It was late when we reached London , nearly eleven o'clock . The long train journey was a delight . During the few hours of daylight and dusk we peered through the car windows at the scenery flying past ; at the villages , the green fields , the hedges , the neat , trim farms . `` Everything looks as if it has been swept and dusted , '' declared Hephzy .

5980

9

a quarter after nine

I could not eat , either , but I made the pretence of doing so . The next morning , at breakfast in the sitting-room , we were a silent pair . I do n't know what George , the waiter , thought of us . At a quarter after nine I turned away from the window through which I had been moodily regarding the donkey cart of a flower huckster in the street below . `` You 'd better get on your things , '' I said . `` It is time for us to go . '' Hephzy donned her hat and wrap .

5980

10

ten in the morning

Pity and charity and all the rest of it I would not consider . Right was right , and justice was justice . I would end a disagreeable business as quickly as I could . Mrs. Briggs ' lodging-house , viewed from the outside , was no more inviting at ten in the morning than it had been at four in the afternoon . I expected Hephzy to make some comment upon the dirty steps and the still dirtier front door . She did neither . We stood together upon the steps and I rang the bell .

5980

6

six o'clock

I did not sleep at all that night , nor did I forget . God help me ! I was realizing that I never could forget . At six o'clock I came downstairs , made a pretence at eating some biscuits and cheese which I found on the sideboard , scribbled a brief note to Hephzy stating that I had gone for a walk and should not be back to breakfast , and started out . The walk developed into a long one and I did not return to the rectory until nearly eleven in the forenoon . By that time I was in a better mood , more reconciled to the inevitable -- or I thought I was . I believed I could play the man , could even see her married to Herbert Bayliss and still behave like a man .

5980

5

five o'clock

We tried to trace her , of course . That is , I tried and Hephzy did not dissuade me , although she realized , I am sure , the hopelessness of the quest . Frances had left the rectory very early in the morning . The hostler at the inn had been much surprised to find her awaiting him when he came down to the yard at five o'clock . She was obliged to go to London , she said , and must take the very first train : Would he drive her to Haddington on Hill at once ? He did so -- probably she had offered him a great deal more than the regular fare -- and she had taken the train . Questioning the hostler , who was a surly , uncommunicative lout , resulted in my learning very little in addition to this .

5980

11

eleven o'clock

The little sleep I had was filled with dreams , dreams from which I awoke to toss restlessly . I rose and walked the floor , calling myself a fool , a silly old fool , over and over again . But when morning came my plan , a ridiculous , wild plan from which , even if it succeeded -- which was most unlikely -- nothing but added trouble and despair could possibly come , my plan was nearer its ultimate formation . At eleven o'clock that forenoon I walked up the marble steps of the Manor House and rang the bell . The butler , an exalted personage in livery , answered my ring . Mr. Heathcroft ? No , sir .

5980

0

nearly midnight before

I 'll ask Hepton to give me an itinerary of the trip and I will wire when and where I will join you . You must go , Hephzy ; I insist upon it . '' In spite of my insisting Hephzy still declared she should not go . It was nearly midnight before she gave in . `` And if you DO N'T come in three days at the longest , '' she said , `` you 'll find me back here huntin ' you up . I mean that , Hosy , so you 'd better understand it . And now , '' rising from her chair , `` I 'm goin ' to see about the things you 're to wear while we 're separated .

5980

10

a quarter to eleven

Would I wish to send up my name now ? Again I declined , to the polite astonishment of the concierge , who evidently considered me a queer sort of a friend . He was called to his desk by a guest , who wished to ask questions , of course , and I waited where I was . At a quarter to eleven Herbert Bayliss emerged from the elevator . His appearance almost shocked me . Out late the night before ! He looked as if he had been out all night for many nights .

5980

0

Midnight

At ten-thirty , as my cab buzzed into the square and pulled up at the curb , the electric signs were blazing , the sidewalks were , if not yet crowded , at least well filled , and the sounds of music from the open windows of The Dead Rat and the other cafes with the cheerful names were mingling with noises of the street . Monsieur Louis had given me my sailing orders , so to speak . He had told me that arriving at L'Abbaye before ten-thirty was quite useless . Midnight was the accepted hour , he said ; prior to that I would find it rather dull , triste . But after that -- Ah , Monsieur would , at least , be entertained . `` But of course Monsieur does not expect to find the young lady of whom he is in search there , '' he said . `` A relative is she not ? ''

5980

2

nearly two o'clock

I did not join in `` the cheer Americain , '' but I did burst out laughing , a proceeding which caused the young lady at my left to pat my arm and nod delighted approval . She evidently thought I was becoming gay and lighthearted at last . She was never more mistaken . It was nearly two o'clock and I had had quite enough of L'Abbaye . I had not enjoyed myself -- had not expected to , so far as that went . I hope I am not a prig , and , whatever I am or am not , priggishness had no part in my feelings then . Under ordinary circumstances I should not have enjoyed myself in a place like that .

5980

0

midnight

So Jim wrote , professing to find material gain in the affair . `` Great stuff , '' he wrote . `` Two chapters at least . The hero , pursuing the villain through the streets of Paris at midnight , is run down by an auto driven by said villain . ` Ah ha ! ' says the villain : ` Now will you be good ? ' or words to that effect .

5980

0

midnight

Hurry back ! Do hurry back , for my sake . And I hope -- Oh , I do hope you 'll bring no bad news . '' L'Abbaye , at eight-thirty in the evening was a deserted place compared to what it had been when I visited it at midnight . The waiters and attendants were there , of course , and a few early bird patrons , but not many . The bearded proprietors , or managers , were flying about , and I caught one of them in the middle of a flight . He did not recognize me at first , but when I stated my errand , he did .

5980

6

six o'clock

I had not seen him for a fortnight , for his calls had ceased even before Frances ' last visit . Hephzy had said that , in her opinion , his meals must be disagreeing with him . Judging by his appearance his digestion was still very much impaired . He was in evening dress , of course ; being an English gentleman he would have dressed for his own execution , if it was scheduled to take place after six o'clock . But his tie was carelessly arranged , his shirt bosom was slightly crumpled and there was a general `` do n't care '' look about his raiment which was , for him , most unusual . And he was very solemn . I decided at once , whatever might have happened , it was not what I surmised .

5980

12

noon

She 's not in . '' She asked if we would leave cards . Hephzy said no . `` It 's ` most noon , '' she said . `` They 'll be back pretty soon . We 'll wait . No , we wo n't come in .

5980

1

one o'clock

Also I shall play the optimist at our next directors ' meeting ; I see signs of a boom in the literature factory . Go to it , my son . You have my blessing . '' We took the one o'clock train for Boston , remained there over night , and left on the early morning `` accommodation '' -- so called , I think , because it accommodates the train hands -- for Cape Cod . As we neared Buzzard 's Bay my spirits , which had been at topnotch , began to sink . When the sand dunes of Barnstable harbor hove in sight they sank lower and lower . It was October , the summer people , most of them , had gone , the station platforms were almost deserted , the more pretentious cottages were closed .

5981

12

Noon

Not one but had lost someone dear to him . They scattered with a will when Warren and Ivan told them about the two children , but the boys who had been nearest the Professor 's house , all said that they had not seen the little girls at all . There were no troops moving about that part while the boys were talking and planning , and they were not molested in any way when they scattered and began to search every foot of the neighborhood . Noon found Warren , Ivan , Jack and a couple of others near a wrecked and deserted bakeshop . There was no one to ask and none to object when they scrambled over the heaps of stone and plaster and wood , and tried the doors of the great ovens . Sure enough , there they found , well cooked and safe , a supply of bread and meat and sweets . Warren and Jack were broken-hearted at the absence of the slightest clue to Elinor , but they made a manly effort and managed to eat a good and nourishing meal , because they knew that they must keep up every bit of strength they had .

5981

3

three o'clock

There was no one to ask and none to object when they scrambled over the heaps of stone and plaster and wood , and tried the doors of the great ovens . Sure enough , there they found , well cooked and safe , a supply of bread and meat and sweets . Warren and Jack were broken-hearted at the absence of the slightest clue to Elinor , but they made a manly effort and managed to eat a good and nourishing meal , because they knew that they must keep up every bit of strength they had . At three o'clock by agreement they all met at the Professor 's house . Not one had secured a single clue . They had searched every empty and ruined building and had asked every person that they had seen . No one had been able to tell them anything that sounded at all helpful .

5981

7

7 o'clock

They reached the house after a hard walk , and were soon feeling some sense of bodily comfort after all the hardships of the day . They decided to act as nearly as possible as though they were but little disturbed by the past events , and to assume the position of foreigners who felt themselves under the protection of their own government . Naturally , all their thoughts were of Elinor , but night had fallen black and stormy , and in all the confusion and lawlessness there was nothing to be done but wait as best they could for morning . In spite of his anxiety , Warren slept heavily and did not awaken until his sister shook him , and he opened his eyes to find that it was seven , 7 o'clock . `` No news , Warren dear , '' said Evelyn . `` Only that that poor little baby is certainly better . Oh , Warren , it is so cunning !

5981

12

noon

Thinking rapidly , he resolved to wait until the men again left the place , when he would rap at the door , and try to get in on whatever excuse he might need to invent when the moment arrived . He crossed the street , and entered an abandoned building . For two hours he waited in biding , never suspecting the anxious scrutiny he himself was undergoing . His wrist watch told him that noon was past . There was no sign of life in the street . Remembering the loads of provisions that the men had carried , he decided that they did not intend to come out of their hiding place until nightfall . That would give him time to return , report to the anxious watchers at home , and consult with Ivan and the other Boy Scouts .

5987

14

about two in the afternoon

Towards the end of the week , and notably on a Saturday , every passer-by is an unshorn brigand capable of the darkest deeds of villany , while twenty-four hours later the land will be found to be peopled by as clean and honest and smart , and withal as handsome , a race of men as any on earth . Before long all habitations were left behind , and the horses climbed from rock to rock like cats . There was no suggestion of pathway or landmark , and Concepçion paused once or twice to take his bearings . It was about two in the afternoon when , after descending the bed of a stream long since dried up , Concepçion called a halt , and proposed to rest the horses while he dined . As on the previous day , the guide 's manner was that of a gentleman , conferring a high honour with becoming modesty when he sat down beside Conyngham and untied his small sack of provisions . These consisted of dried figs and bread , which he offered to his companion before beginning to eat . Conyngham shared his own stock of food with his guide , and subsequently smoked a cigarette which that gentleman offered him .

5987

12

midday

The people are half Moorish still , and from the barred windows look out deep almond eyes and patient faces that have no European feature . The narrow streets were empty as the travellers entered the town , and the clatter of the mules slipping and stumbling on the cobble stones brought but few to the doors of the low-built houses . To enter Ronda from the south the traveller must traverse the Moorish town , which is divided from the Spanish quarter by a cleft in the great rock that renders the town impregnable to all attack . Having crossed the bridge spanning the great gorge into which the sun never penetrates even at midday , the party emerged into the broader streets of the more modern town , and , turning to the right through a high gateway , found themselves in a barrack yard of the Guardias Civiles . ` Le plus grand art d'un habile homme est celui de savoir cacher son habileté . ' WHEN Conyngham awoke after a night conscientiously spent in that profound slumber which waits on an excellent digestion and a careless heart , he found the prison attendant at his bedside . A less easy-going mind would perhaps have leapt to some nervous conclusion at the sight of this fierce-visaged janitor , who , however , carried nothing more deadly in his hand than a card .

5987

6

six o’clock

` And the other man ? Seemed a nice enough fellow ... ' inquired Conyngham . The General raised one gloved hand as if to fend off some approaching calamity . ` He died this morning -- at six o'clock . ' Conyngham looked down at this gentle soldier with a dawning light of comprehension . This might after all be the General Vincente whom he had been led to look upon as the fiercest of the Spanish Queen 's adherents . ` Of the same complaint ? '

5987

5

nearly five o’clock

` When shall I start for Madrid ? ' he asked . ` Oh , to-morrow morning will be time enough , ' was the reply , uttered in an easy-going , indolent tone , ` if you are early astir . You see , it is now nearly five o'clock , and you could scarcely be in saddle before sunset . ' ` No , ' laughed Conyngham , ` scarcely , considering that I have not yet bought the saddle or the horse . ' The General led the way into the house , and Conyngham thought of the letter in his pocket . He had not yet read the address .

5987

6

Six o’clock

` Then there is nothing more to be said ? ' inquired Conyngham with a good-natured laugh . ` Nothing , except the hour at which your Excellency starts . ' ` Six o'clock , ' put in General Vincente quietly . ` Let me see , your name is Concepçion Vara . ' ` Yes , Excellency -- of Algeciras . ' ` It is well .

5987

10

ten in the morning

With great care and a multitude of oaths he lifted Conyngham on to his cart and proceeded with him to Madrid . ` God help me ! I know nothing -- can but pray . ' IT was Father Concha 's custom to attend , at his church between the hours of nine and ten in the morning , to such wants spiritual or temporal as individual members of his flock chose to bring to him . Thus it usually happened that the faithful found the old priest at nine o'clock sunning himself at the front door of the sacred edifice , smoking a reflective cigarette and exchanging the time of day with passers-by or such as had leisure to pause a moment . ` Whether it is body or soul that is in trouble -- come to me , ' he would say . ` For the body I can do a little -- a very little .

5987

9

nine o’clock

` God help me ! I know nothing -- can but pray . ' IT was Father Concha 's custom to attend , at his church between the hours of nine and ten in the morning , to such wants spiritual or temporal as individual members of his flock chose to bring to him . Thus it usually happened that the faithful found the old priest at nine o'clock sunning himself at the front door of the sacred edifice , smoking a reflective cigarette and exchanging the time of day with passers-by or such as had leisure to pause a moment . ` Whether it is body or soul that is in trouble -- come to me , ' he would say . ` For the body I can do a little -- a very little . I have twenty pounds a year , and it is not always paid to me , but I sometimes have a trifle for charity .

5987

10

ten o’clock

But to Father Concha the sum represented five hundred cups of black coffee denied to himself in the evening at the café -- five hundred packets of cigarettes , so-called of Havana , unsmoked -- two new cassocks in the course of twenty years -- a hundred little gastronomic delights sternly resisted season after season . ` Not enough , your hundred pesetas , reverendo , not enough , ' laughed the man . And Concha , who could drive as keen a bargain as any market-woman of Ronda , knew by the manner of saying it that Sebastian only spoke the truth when he said that he had other offers . ` See , reverendo , ' the man went on , leaning across the table and banging a dirty fist upon it , ` come to-night at ten o'clock . There are others coming at the same hour to buy my letter in the pink envelope . We will have an auction , a little auction , and the letter goes to the highest bidder . But what does your reverence want with a love letter , eh ? '

5987

10

about ten o’clock

Sir John took a certain cold interest in his surroundings , and in due course was recommended to spend an evening at the Café des Ambassadeurs , as it styled itself , for the habit of preferring French to Spanish designations for places of refreshment had come in since the great revolution . Sir John went , therefore , to the café , and with characteristic scorn of elemental disturbance chose to resort thither on the evening of the great gale . The few other occupants of the gorgeous room eyed his half-bottle of claret with a grave and decorous wonder , but made no attempt to converse with this chill-looking Englishman . At length , about ten o'clock or a few minutes later , entered one who bowed to Sir John with an air full of affable promise . This was Larralde , who called a waiter and bade him fetch a coat-brush . ` Would you believe it , sir ? ' he said , addressing Sir John in broken English , ` but I have just escaped a terrible death . '

5987

0

midnight

He was not deceived by the picturesque manner of Julia 's lover , but knew exactly how much was assumed of that air of simple vanity to which Larralde usually treated strangers . He probably gauged at one glance the depth of the man 's power for good or ill , his sincerity , his possible usefulness . In the hands of Sir John Pleydell , Larralde was the merest tool . They sat until long after midnight , and before they parted Sir John Pleydell handed to his companion a roll of notes , which he counted carefully and Larralde accepted with a grand air of condescension and indifference . ` You know my address , ' said Sir John , with a slight suggestion of masterfulness which had not been noticeable before the money changed hands . ` I shall remain at the same hotel . ' Larralde nodded his head .

5987

12

midday

Day after day the sun glared down from a cloudless sky , and all Castile was burnt brown as a desert . In the streets of Madrid there arose a hot dust and the subtle odour of warm earth that rarely meets the nostrils in England . It savoured of India and other sun-steeped lands where water is too precious to throw upon the roads . Those who could , remained indoors or in their shady patios until the heat of the day was past ; and such as worked in the open lay unchallenged in the shade from midday till three o'clock . During those days military operations were almost suspended , although the heads of departments were busy enough in their offices . The confusion of war , it seemed , was past , and the sore-needed peace was immediately turned to good account . The army of the Queen Regent was indeed in an almost wrecked condition , and among the field officers jealousy and backbiting , which had smouldered through the war-time , broke out openly .

5987

8

eight o’clock

` And yet , ' he said gaily , ` it is the best game of all -- is it not so ? ' The troopers shrugged their shoulders . One may have too much of even the best game . ` The carriage is ordered for eight o'clock , ' continued the practical Concepçion , rolling a cigarette , which he placed behind his ear where a clerk would carry his pen . ` Those who take the road when the night-birds come abroad have something to hide . We will see what they have in their carriage , eh ? The horses are hired for the journey to Galvez , where a relay is doubtless ordered .

5987

9

nine o’clock

said the nervous soldier , and his hand shook on the bridle . His companion smiled at the recollection of former fights passed through together . It is well , in love and war , to beware of him who says he is afraid . Shortly after nine o'clock the silence of that deserted plain was broken by a distant murmur , which presently shaped itself into the beat of horses ' feet . To this was added soon the rumble of wheels . The elder soldier put a whole cigarette into his mouth and chewed it . The younger man made no movement now .

5987

0

midnight

` I will sing . In Andalusia we can all sing . The pigs sing better there than the men of Castile . ' It was after midnight when the party rode past the Church of the Cristo de la Vega , and faced the long hill that leads to the gate Del Cambron . Above them towered the city of Toledo -- silent and dreamlike . Concepçion had ceased singing now , and the hard breathing of the horses alone broke the silence . The Tagus , emerging here from rocky fastness , flowed noiselessly away to the west -- a gleaming ribbon laid across the breast of the night .

5987

0

midnight

He always remains in the background . ' In the tents of Kedar men sleep as sound as those who lie on soft pillows , and Conyngham was late astir the next morning . Sir John Pleydell was , it transpired , already at his breakfast , and had ordered his carriage for an early hour to take the road to Talavera . It was thus evident that Sir John knew nothing of the arrival of his fellow-countryman at midnight . The cold face of the great lawyer wore a look of satisfaction as he sat at a small table in the patio of the hotel and drank his coffee . Conyngham watched him for a moment from the balcony of the courtyard , himself unseen , while Concepçion stood within his master 's bedroom , and rubbed his brown hands together in anticipation of a dramatic moment . Conyngham passed down the stone steps and crossed the patio with a gay smile .

5987

9

nine o’clock

Nearly half of Spain was for Don Carlos . The Church sided with him , and the best soldiers were those who , unpaid , unfed , and half clad , fought on the southern slopes of the Pyrenees for a man who dared not lead them . Sir John Pleydell had intended crossing the frontier into Portugal , following the carriage conveying his prisoner to the seaport of Lisbon , where he anticipated no difficulty in finding a ship captain who would be willing to carry Conyngham to England . All this , however , had been frustrated by so unimportant a person as Concepçion Vara , and the carriage ordered for nine o'clock to proceed to Talavera now stood in the courtyard of the hotel , while the Baronet in his lonely apartment sat and wondered what he should do next . He had dealt with justice all his life , and had ensued it not from love , but as a matter of convenience and a means of livelihood . From the mere habit , he now desired to do justice to Conyngham . ` See if you can find out for me the whereabouts of General Vincente at the moment , and let the carriage wait , ' he said to his servant , a valet-courier of taciturn habit .

5987

12

midday

he muttered , ` with your jokes about my wife . Now you may make a false journey for all the help you receive from me . ' And a few minutes later Concepçion rode across the Bridge of Alcantara , some paces behind Conyngham , who deemed it wise to return to his duties at Madrid without delay . Despite the great heat on the plains , which , indeed , made it almost dangerous to travel at midday , the streets of Toledo were cool and shady enough , as Sir John Pleydell traversed them in search of the Palazzo Barenna . The Contessa was in , and the Englishman was ushered into a vast room , which even the taste of the day could not entirely deprive of its mediæval grandeur . Sir John explained to the servant in halting Spanish that his name was unknown to the Señora Barenna , but that -- a stranger in some slight difficulty -- he had been recommended to seek her assistance . Sir John was an imposing-looking man , with that grand air which enables some men not only to look , but to get over a wall while an insignificant wight may not so much as approach the gate .

5987

20

about eight o’clock in the evening

` There is doubtless something astir , ' said the waiter , who , in the intervals of a casual attendance on Sir John , spoke of these things , cigarette in mouth . ` There is doubtless something astir , since General Vincente is on the road . They call him the Stormy Petrel , for when he appears abroad there usually follows a disturbance . ' Sir John sent his servant to the General 's apartment about eight o'clock in the evening asking permission to present himself . In reply , the General himself came to Sir John 's room . ` My dear sir , ' he cried , taking both the Englishman 's hands in an affectionate grasp , ` to think that you were in the hotel and that we did not dine together . Come , yes , come to our poor apartment , where Estella awaits the pleasure of renewing your acquaintance . '

5987

12

midday

With Concha he was as simple , as direct , and as unsophisticated as the old priest himself , and now took his leave without attempting to disguise the fact that he had accomplished a foreset purpose . Without difficulty he found the small stationer 's shop next to the synagogue in the Calle de Madrid , and bade the stationer -- a spectacled individual with upright hair and the air of seeking something in the world which is not usually behind a counter -- take his card to Señor Larralde . At first the stationer pretended ignorance of the name , but on discovering that Sir John had not sufficient Spanish to conduct a conversation of intrigue , disappeared into a back room , whence emanated a villanous smell of cooking . While Sir John waited in the little shop , Father Concha walked to the Plazuela de l'Iglesia Vieja , which small square , overhanging the Tagus and within reach of its murmuring voice , is deserted except at midday , when the boys play at bull-fighting and a few workmen engage in a grave game of bowls . Concha sat , book in hand , opened honestly at the office of the day and hour , and read no word . Instead , he stared across the gorge at the brown bank of land which commands the city and renders it useless as a fortress in the days of modern artillery . He sat and stared grimly , and thought perhaps of those secret springs within the human heart that make one man successful and unhappy , while another , possessing brains and ability and energy , fails in life , yet is perhaps the happier of the two .

5987

12

midday

Larralde gave a little nod of self-confidence and satisfaction , as one who , having conceived and built up a great scheme , is pleased to see each component part of it act independently , and slip into its place . The General 's first thought was for Estella 's comfort , and he utilised the long hill which they had to ascend on leaving the town to make such arrangements as space would allow for their common ease . ` You must sleep , my child , ' he said . ` We can not hope to reach Ciudad Real before midday to-morrow , and it is as likely as not that we shall have but a few hours ' rest there . ' And Estella , who had travelled vast distances over vile roads so long as her memory went back , who had never known what it is to live in a country that is at peace , leant back in her corner and closed her eyes . Had she really been disposed to sleep , however , she could scarcely have done it , for the General 's solicitude manifested itself by a hundred little devices for her greater repose . For her comfort he made Concha move .

5987

12

midday

And the horses will be forthcoming , no doubt . ' ` They will be forthcoming , ' said the man . ` And the Excellency 's carriage is ready . ' In the early morning light they drove on , now descending towards the great valley of the Guadiana , and at midday , as Vincente had foreseen , gained a sight of the ancient city of Ciudad Real lying amid trees below them . Ciudad Real is less interesting than its name , and there is little that is royal about its dirty streets and ill-kept houses . No one gave great heed to the travelling-carriage , for this is a great centre where travellers journeying east or west , north or south , must needs pause for a change of horses . At the inn there were vacant rooms , and that hasty welcome accorded to the traveller at wayside houses where none stay longer than they can help .

5987

4

about four o’clock

Even while General Vincente , that unrivalled strategist , detailed his plans , she kept harking back to the question that puzzled her , and but half listened to his instructions . Those desirous of travelling without attracting attention in Spain are wise to time their arrival and departure for the afternoon . At this time , while the sun is yet hot , all shutters are closed , and the business of life , the haggling in the market-place , the bustle of the barrack yard , the leisurely labour of the fields , are suspended . It was about four o'clock -- indeed , the city clocks were striking that hour -- when the two carriages in the inn yard at Ciudad Real were made ready for the road . Father Concha , who never took an active part in passing incidents while his old friend and comrade was near , sat in a shady corner of the patio and smoked a cigarette . An affable ostler had in vain endeavoured to engage him in conversation . Two small children had begged of him , and now he was left in meditative solitude .

5987

10

about ten o’clock

The travellers took their places in the carriage , and again the monotony of the road , the steady trot of the horses , the sing-song words of encouragement of their driver , monopolised the thoughts of sleepy minds . It seemed to Estella that life was all journeys , and that she had been on the road for years . The swing of the carriage , the little varieties of the road , but served to add to her somnolence . She only half woke up when , about ten o'clock , a halt was made to change horses , and the General quitted the carriage for a few minutes to talk earnestly with two horsemen , who were apparently awaiting their arrival . No time was lost here , and the carriage went forward with an increased escort . The two new-comers rode by the carriage , one on either side . When Estella woke up , the moon had risen and the carriage was making slow progress up a long hill .

5987

0

nearly midnight

The General , leaning out of the carriage window , was also looking back anxiously . ` They have sent a messenger to Madrid , Excellency , with the news that the Queen is on the road to Toledo , ' said Concepçion . ` It is well , ' answered Vincente , with a laugh . As they journeyed , although it was nearly midnight , there appeared from time to time , and for the most part in the neighbourhood of a village , one who seemed to have been awaiting their passage , and immediately set out on foot or horseback by one of the shorter bridle-paths that abound in Spain . No one of these spies escaped the notice of Concepçion , whose training amid the mountains of Andalusia had sharpened his eyesight and added keenness to every sense . ` It is like a cat walking down an alley full of dogs , ' he muttered . At last the lights of Toledo hove in sight , and across the river came the sound of the city clocks tolling the hour .

5987

0

Midnight

No one of these spies escaped the notice of Concepçion , whose training amid the mountains of Andalusia had sharpened his eyesight and added keenness to every sense . ` It is like a cat walking down an alley full of dogs , ' he muttered . At last the lights of Toledo hove in sight , and across the river came the sound of the city clocks tolling the hour . ` Midnight , ' said Concha . ` And all respectable folk are in their beds . At night all cats are grey . ' No one heeded him .

5987

0

midnight

` As quiet as a watching cat , ' replied Vincente . ` What lot is mine Whose foresight preaches peace , my heart so slow To feel it ! ' THROUGH these quiet streets the party clattered noisily enough , for the rain had left the rounded stones slippery , and the horses were too tired for a sure step . There were no lights at the street corners , for all had been extinguished at midnight , and the only glimmer of a lamp that relieved the darkness was shining through the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral , where the sacred oil burnt night and day . The Queen was evidently expected at the Casa del Ayuntamiento , for at the approach of the carriage the great doors were thrown open and a number of servants appeared in the patio , which was but dimly lighted . By the General 's orders the small body-guard passed through the doors , which were then closed , instead of continuing their way to the barracks in the Alcazar . This Casa del Ayuntamiento stands , as many travellers know , in the Plaza of the same name , and faces the Cathedral , which is without doubt the oldest , as it assuredly is the most beautiful , church in the world .

32484

12

noon

The sooner the better . '' `` Oh , and about the Russians , '' said Captain Robb , smiling . `` There 's been nothing but a steady stream of ` no comment ' out of the Kremlin since we landed here . '' `` Right now , '' said Hamston , `` it 's probably high noon for every scientist behind the iron curtain . '' `` I wonder how they plan to talk their way out of this one ? '' asked Farnsworth . `` Gentlemen , I 'd like to go on talking about the welcome we 're going to receive , but I think we 'd better take first things first .

22267

0

midnight

`` SENATOR 'S DAUGHTER RUNS FOR MAYOR . '' `` MEN TO BE LAID ON THE POLITICAL SHELF . '' `` SENATOR VAN DEUSEN WILL TURN IN HIS GRAVE IF DAUGHTER ACCEPTS NOMINATION . '' were some of the head-lines which Roma editors had produced by late use of midnight oil , and the articles that followed them were incredulous , mildly tolerant , openly snobbish or given over to ridicule , according to the policy of their several papers . One of them read : `` It is both a disgrace and a menace to this fair city that city politics have sunk to such a level that our best men will have nothing to do with them , and that no one with the ideals of good government , other than a handful of women , will undertake the improvement of our municipal government . With all deference to the ladies , -- and who knows their many charming qualities better than we ? -- it is inevitable that , ` trained to keep silence in the churches ' -- -LRB- and the City Hall as well -RRB- -- our women are without the large-minded grasp of affairs , -- the broad and liberal judgment , necessary to cope with these affairs .

22267

10

ten o'clock

But it seems to some of us sufficient reason for going down on our knees with thankfulness that a good and an able woman will consent to serve her city in such capacity . And we owe it to her , to ourselves as men , and to our city as voters and citizens , that we shall go out and work for her . Has anyone a definite plan of action ? '' Nearly every man in the room spoke in the same strain and before ten o'clock their campaign was planned . Then the newspapers were called up and reporters began to appear . The next morning Roma had its second sensation . A leading editorial ran thus : `` Last night at the residence of the late Senator Van Deusen , a number of the most prominent men and women of this town met and organized the City Reform Club , and incidentally endorsed the candidacy of Miss Gertrude Van Deusen for mayor .

22267

12

noon

And having read it , she placed it on the glowing coals , smiling softly to herself the while . A Political Trick The campaign was a furious one after that . The women , instead of leaving the management of things to men , were stirred to wonderful activity . They worked , not only among the men of their own acquaintance , but among the working-people ; they held meetings in factories at noon , or in school-rooms or cheap halls at night in the districts where the factory-hands lived . They spoke at mass-meetings and rallies , and if they did not appear in torchlight processions , they saw that many banners were carried in them , bearing the women 's motto and legend . It was a hard fight , but a good one , and the cause of womanhood as well as of good government was advanced by it . When Sam Watts , for instance , with his pockets well-lined , went down into the district where lived the employees of the Roma Ice Company , he did not find it so easy to disburse that money as he had expected .

22267

7

a quarter to eight

At half-past seven her maid came up from the door : `` They 've sent for you , '' she announced . `` An automobile is at the door . '' `` Why , I did n't know the committee was going to send for me , '' said Miss Van Deusen . `` I ordered the carriage for a quarter to eight . Go down and ask the chauffeur -- no , never mind . It 's all right , no doubt . I 'll go with him .

22267

0

midnight

The hall had been closed an hour before and the disappointed audience , after listening impatiently to the extempore speakers who had tried to fill the time until the principals in the joint debate should appear , had gone home doubtful of the morrow . The auto stopped outside the gate in front of Van Deusen Hall and one of the chauffeurs , still muffled to the eyes , helped Gertrude to the ground . John Allingham had stepped out first . But before he could remonstrate with them for leaving a lady on the street alone and past midnight , in fact , just as he was beginning to ask angrily , why they did not drive in , the man slammed the door , jumped to his seat , and the cab glided away . `` And we have n't the faintest idea who they are ? '' said Miss Van Deusen . `` They did n't have any number -- '' `` If it was n't left with the wreck , '' answered Allingham , `` and they were , doubtless , too sharp for that .

22267

8

eight o'clock

I wonder how we would have met if I had never gone into politics . I wonder if he would have liked me then , really ? '' Modern Journalism The `` Progressive Workers '' has been especially busy in arranging for the joint debate between their own and the Republican candidates , and they were in full force and early at the meeting . When eight o'clock came and Gertrude Van Deusen had not appeared , they felt no anxiety , but as the moments passed and she did not come , they began to be surprised and then alarmed . `` Gertrude is always prompt , '' said Mrs. Bateman , as they waited in the ante-room . `` I can not imagine what is keeping her . Telephone over to her house , Anna , and see if she has left , wo n't you ?

22267

7

half past seven

Telephone over to her house , Anna , and see if she has left , wo n't you ? I have to attend to things here . '' Mrs. Stillman hurried to the telephone , coming back later with a puzzled expression on her aristocratic features . `` Her cousin says she left there at half past seven in an automobile , '' she said . `` It is half past eight now . '' `` An automobile ? '' said Mrs. Bateman .

22267

8

half past eight

I have to attend to things here . '' Mrs. Stillman hurried to the telephone , coming back later with a puzzled expression on her aristocratic features . `` Her cousin says she left there at half past seven in an automobile , '' she said . `` It is half past eight now . '' `` An automobile ? '' said Mrs. Bateman . `` Did anybody send for her , I wonder ? ''

22267

11

eleven o'clock

After a hurried consultation with the representatives from Allingham 's committee , the meeting was opened and the speaking began . But although those who addressed the audience were eloquent enough , they were unprepared , and moreover , were conscious that their listeners were keeping one eye upon the door ; in short , everybody present desired only to hear the two appointed speakers ; so that the affair was most perfunctory . The minutes grew into hours , and these did not arrive . Mrs. Mason , Mrs. Bateman , even Mary Snow , were sent out to the platform to represent the woman 's side , and although they were well received , the meeting broke up at eleven o'clock with a distinct sense of disappointment , not to say failure . The audience dispersed with but one question : `` Where are they ? and why have they not come ? '' A little after two , Gertrude called up Mrs. Bateman and told her of the events which had transpired since she had started out for the joint debate ; but it was too late to send explanations to any other member of the committee .

22267

1

one o'clock in the morning

Thus doth fate pursue the over - ambitious and wreck their plans . `` When the chauffeurs returned from the farmhouse whence they had gone for help in extricating their machines , Allingham , the aristocrat , lay prone on the ground with his head in the lap of her who had been his whilom opponent for the mayor 's chair . A sight fit for the gods , truly -- and also for the voters of Roma . `` The couple , erstwhile at swords ' points , but now tucked cosily together in one electric cab , were later brought back to Roma at one o'clock in the morning -- she none the worse for her skillful evasion of the platform contest , and he with a slight scalp wound only , to show that he had been worsted . `` It remains now for the voters of Roma to consider whether such candidates as these are to be considered fit to be trusted with the affairs of our enterprising young city -- and to vote accordingly . '' Election Day Election day dawned bright and clear and all Roma was up early , actively interested for once in the outcome of the day 's work . The polling places were lively at seven o'clock and from that hour they grew more and more crowded , as men and women of all parties swarmed to deposit their ballots according to the Australian system .

22267

7

seven o'clock

`` The couple , erstwhile at swords ' points , but now tucked cosily together in one electric cab , were later brought back to Roma at one o'clock in the morning -- she none the worse for her skillful evasion of the platform contest , and he with a slight scalp wound only , to show that he had been worsted . `` It remains now for the voters of Roma to consider whether such candidates as these are to be considered fit to be trusted with the affairs of our enterprising young city -- and to vote accordingly . '' Election Day Election day dawned bright and clear and all Roma was up early , actively interested for once in the outcome of the day 's work . The polling places were lively at seven o'clock and from that hour they grew more and more crowded , as men and women of all parties swarmed to deposit their ballots according to the Australian system . Never before in the history of the town had so many voters been out on the day of a municipal election . The women had opened coffee-rooms for the day close by all the important voting booths , and wives and daughters of the most prominent men in town served the steaming beverage by turns throughout the election hours free to all who might come . Moreover , they saw to it that no voter who mustered under the City Reform Club banner , was neglected .

22267

6

six o'clock

`` But we shall never learn the truth . The trick was done so well that the perpetrators know how to cover their tracks . '' But a bevy of voters coming in , the conversation ended and Gertrude did not see her opponent again that day . At six o'clock that evening , she lay on the couch in her own room , weary with the day 's experiences . For all she had considered herself well posted in political methods , this day had been a revelation to her . `` Well , Jessica , '' she told her cousin , `` I suppose we shall know before we go to bed how I stand . But at this moment , after all I 've seen today and realizing the state our city affairs are in , I will own to you in confidence that I hope -- honestly and earnestly , -- that I am defeated .

22267

10

ten o'clock

With them were many of the `` Progressive Workers , '' eager for news . The Union Club , the hotels and Burke 's headquarters were crowded , while John Allingham and his trusted lieutenants were gathered at the Municipal League rooms . Returns came in slowly and the crowds on the street clamored for news faster than the bulletins could be given out . At ten o'clock John Allingham was obliged to retreat and go home , physically worn out . The accident of the previous evening , combined with the excitement of the day , had proved too much for him . He was already in bed when the final returns reached him by telephone . Then he shut and locked his door , refusing to speak to another soul that night , -- not even to his mother when she came up to see if he had taken the doctor 's medicine .

22267

0

midnight

It leaked out , too , that there were two men with the cab which carried John Allingham , lest , -- the people said , -- he should try to break the plate glass front and jump from his moving prison . But that the plot was a well-matured one was proven by the fact that outside locks had been placed on the doors to both cabs , so that they could not be forced open from the inside . No definite clue , however , could be obtained to the perpetrators of the kidnaping scheme , although both sufferers from it had put private detectives at work upon the affair . But , like many startling public events , the midnight ride of the two candidates was a `` nine days ' wonder '' and then the public interest centered around the newly elected mayor . Gertrude had need not only of public sympathy , but of all the courage and clear-sightedness which she had inherited . This she realized more fully than ever , when the excitement of campaigning was over . If she had chosen to spend her time and strength and money on automobiles or fine clothes , people would have passed upon her choice as the natural thing , and envied her way of living ; but now that she had elected to work hard and to give herself freely to fighting for principle and establishing good government in her city , her friends of different tastes whispered among themselves , `` How strange ! ''