a few minutes before noon
You 'd better have a quick luncheon at your club , and then come to Traill 's bookshop in the Haymarket at two . You can get back to Biggleswick by the 5.16 . ' I did as I was bid , and twenty minutes later , having travelled by Underground , for I could n't raise a taxi , I approached the block of chambers in Leadenhall Street where dwelt the respected firm who managed my investments . It was still a few minutes before noon , and as I slowed down a familiar figure came out of the bank next door . Ivery beamed recognition . ` Up for the day , Mr Brand ? ' he asked .