Behind them, in the centre of the room, the table was spread for supper, certain whiffs of air laden with fat vapours, which ever and anon entered from the kitchen, denoting its preparation there.
'The new gown he was going to send you stays about on the way like himself,' Sally's mother was saying.
'Yes, not finished, I daresay,' cried Sally independently.

'Lord, I shouldn't be amazed if it didn't come at all! Young men make such kind promises when they are near you, and forget 'em when they go away.

But he doesn't intend it as a wedding-gown--he gives it to me merely as a gown to wear when I like--a travelling-dress is what it would be called by some.

Come rathe or come late it don't much matter, as I have a dress of my own to fall back upon.

But what time is it ?' She went to the family clock and opened the glass, for the hour was not otherwise discernible by night, and indeed at all times was rather a thing to be investigated than beheld, so much more wall than window was there in the apartment.