Then they lifted away their apprehensive solicitude for Sarah Gailey, and Janet, having sighed relief, began to talk about old times.

And their voices grew louder and more free.
"Can you tell me what time it is ?" Janet asked, later.

"I've broken the spring of my watch, and I have to meet father at the station at ten-fifteen." "I haven't a notion!" said Hilda, rather ashamed.
"I hope it isn't ten o'clock." "I could ask," said Hilda hesitatingly.

The hour, for aught she knew, was nine, eleven, or even midnight.

She was oblivious of time.
"I'll run," said Janet, preparing to go.