ten o'clock
One morning , as he sat at breakfast , Mr. Galbraith received from Mr. Torrie , whom he knew as the agent in the purchase of Glashruach , and whom he supposed to have bought it for Major Culsalmon , a letter , more than respectful , stating that matters had come to light regarding the property which rendered his presence on the spot indispensable for their solution , especially as there might be papers of consequence in view of the points in question , in some drawer or cabinet of those he had left locked behind him . The present owner , therefore , through Mr. Torrie , begged most respectfully that Mr. Galbraith would sacrifice two days of his valuable time , and visit Glashruach . The result , he did not doubt , would be to the advantage of both parties . If Mr. Galbraith would kindly signify to Mr. Torrie his assent , a carriage and four , with postilions , that he might make the journey in all possible comfort , should be at his house the next morning , at ten o'clock , if that hour would be convenient . For weeks the laird had been an unmitigated bore to himself , and the invitation laid hold upon him by the most projecting handle of his being , namely , his self-importance . He wrote at once to signify his gracious assent ; and in the evening told his daughter he was going to Glashruach on business , and had arranged for Miss Kimble to come and stay with her till his return . At nine o'clock the schoolmistress came to breakfast , and at ten a travelling-carriage with four horses drew up at the door , looking nearly as big as the cottage .