Tea consumption increased dramatically during the early nineteenth century. and it is around this time that Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford is said to have complained. of "having that sinking feeling" during the late afternoon. At the time it was usual. for people to take only two main meals a day, breakfast and dinner at around 8 o'clock in the evening. The solution for the Duchess was a tea pot and a light snack, taken privately in her boudoir during the afternoon.