Friday
at noon
When the time came at which I should pay it , stocks were so depreciated that it was impossible to sell . Very hostile proceedings are threatened against me now . Accusations are made , false as hell , '' -- Mr. Melmotte as he spoke raised his voice and looked round the room , -- `` but which at the present crisis may do me most cruel damage . I have come to say that , if you will undertake to stop proceedings which have been commenced in the City , I will have fifty thousand pounds , -- which is the amount due to these two gentlemen , -- ready for payment on Friday at noon . '' `` I have taken no proceedings as yet , '' said Bideawhile . `` It 's Squercum , '' says Dolly . `` Well , sir , '' continued Melmotte addressing Dolly , `` let me assure you that if these proceedings are stayed the money will be forthcoming ; -- but if not , I can not produce the money .