twenty minutes past five
On arriving home Geoffrey was informed that Lady Honoria was dressing , and had left a message saying he must be quick and do likewise as a gentleman was coming to dinner . Accordingly he went to his own room -- which was at the other end of the flat -- and put on his dress clothes . Before going to the dining-room , however , he said good-night to Effie -- who was in bed , but not asleep -- and asked her what time she had reached home . `` At twenty minutes past five , daddy , '' Effie said promptly . `` Twenty minutes past five ! Why , you do n't mean to say that you were an hour coming that little way ! Did you get blocked in the fog ? ''