seven o'clock
But for once the strong wish that evolves a thought conquered his caution . His work was absorbing ; the need of verification seemed very small . He let the suggestion pass . At seven o'clock he dressed carefully . His mind was full of Lakely and of the possibilities the night might hold ; for more than once before , the weight of the ` St. George 's Gazette ' , with Lakely at its back , had turned the political scales . To be marked by him as a coming man was at any time a favorable portent ; to be singled out by him at the present juncture was momentous . A thrill of expectancy , almost of excitement , passed through him as he surveyed his appearance preparatory to leaving the house .