About four o'clock
Charlotte only clung to her dream of hope , and refused to be wakened from it . She was sure her father had been worse many a time . She was almost cross at Ducie 's unusual visit . About four o'clock Steve had a long interview with the squire . Charlotte walked restlessly to and fro in the corridor ; she heard Steve 's voice , strong and kind and solemn , and she divined what promises he was making to the dying man for herself and for her mother . But even her love did not anticipate their parting words , -- `` Farewell , Stephen . Yet one word more .