nearly a quarter to six
`` No , dear , not yet . But he must be here soon . '' `` I will not keep his lordship waiting , '' said the doctor , quietly going on with his tying ; and Aunt Hannah toddled back to look at the drawing-room mantel-clock . `` Dear me , yes , '' she said ; `` it is nearly a quarter to six . '' Punctually to his time , the doctor 's step was heard in the little hall , where he hung up his hat before going upstairs to change his coat and boots and wash his hands . Then descending . `` Time that boy was back , is n't it ? ''