a quarter past nine
Julian 's hopes were still high , and he could not fail to hear of the numerous and seemingly authoritative reports which had ascribed success to him . He pressed his hands hard together , as he prayed that what was most for his welfare might be granted to him , and thought what boundless delight success would bring with it . What a joy it would be , above all , to write home , and gladden their hearts by the news of his triumph . Every moment his suspense made him more feverish , and now the clock struck a quarter past nine , and he feared that in this case no news must be bad news . He leaned out of the window , and at this moment Mr Grayson strolled across the bowling-green . Then he heard another don , who was following him , call out -- `` I say , do you know that the Clerkland is out ? '' `` Is it ? ''