five o’clock
The colonel told his story so impressively , with such self-possession and dignity , that no one had the courage to interrupt him . Only the clerk , infected by his example , decided to break in with a story of his own : `` There are some who get so used to it that they can take 40 drops . I have a relative -- , '' but the colonel would not stand the interruption , and went on to relate what effects the opium had on his brother-in-law 's wife . `` But , gentlemen , do you know it is getting on towards five o'clock ? '' said one of the jury . `` Well , gentlemen , what are we to say , then ? '' inquired the foreman .