eleven o'clock
Never before had he been quite so hard pressed . They now owed a week 's rent , besides other small debts ; all of which they were unable to pay unless they pawned the remainder of their clothes . He said it would be far better for them to go to Manchester , leaving their things , to be redeemed some day , as a security with the landlady -- that is to say , if they failed to get out of the house without being perceived by her . They still had half a crown , which would pay Kate 's railway fare , and as regards himself , Dick proposed that he should do the journey on foot ; he would be able to walk the distance easily in three hours , and at eleven o'clock would join his wife at an address which he gave her , with many injunctions as to the story that was to be told to the landlady . So , as the clock was striking seven one cold winter 's morning , they stole quietly downstairs , Dick carrying a small portmanteau . On the table of their room a letter was left , explaining that a telegram received overnight called them to Manchester , but that they hoped to be back again in a few days -- a week at latest . This assurance Dick considered would amply satisfy the old dame , and holding the portmanteau on his shoulder with one arm , and supporting Kate with the other , he made his way to the station .