Two o'clock
A visit from Sydney was a rare occurrence , and he must be treated royally , as though he were a king condescending to quarter himself on his loyal subjects -- which indeed , he was . When Lettice went to tell her father the news she found him seated by the fire , pondering gloomily on what the immediate future might have in store for him ; but as soon as she showed him Sydney 's telegram he sprang to his feet , with straightened body and brightly shining eyes . In one moment he had passed from despondency to the height of exultation . `` Two o'clock , '' he said , looking at his watch , `` and he will be here at five ! Dinner must be ready for him by six ; and you will take care , Lettice , that everything is prepared as you know he would like to have it . Going into Parliament , is he ? Yes , I have always told you that he would .