In taste by Roald Dahl what is the time at the beginning of the story? what words/phrases support your opinion?

she is later raised by him and his wife, madame valmonde, who sees her as gift from god, as the couple cannot have their own children. later, desiree falls in love with a wealthy man, armand aubigny, and they get married.

comment ur email above in the comments(:

this isnt an english question.