twelve o'clock
The latter stepped out , with his eyes upon the ground , and stood with his hand upon the wagon , in thought , for some moments ; then looking up , he said , while the humour of the whole thing pressed itself so full upon him , that he could not help smiling , `` See here , Gooding , if both you and Harry will promise me never to say a word about this confounded trick , I will give you a check for three hundred dollars on the spot . '' `` No , I must have four hundred and twenty-six dollars , the principal and interest . Nothing less , '' returned Gooding firmly . `` You have acknowledged the debt in the presence of Mr. Williams , and if it is not paid by to-morrow twelve o'clock , I shall commence suit against you . If I receive the money before that time , we will keep this little matter quiet ; if suit is brought , all will come out on the trial . '' `` As you please , '' said Jenkins angrily , turning away , and entering his house . Before twelve o'clock on the next day , however , Jenkins 's clerk called in at the store of Gooding , and paid him four hundred and twenty-six dollars , for which he took his receipt in full for all demands to date .