about six o’clock in
the morning
As he looked , he saw Tom relieve him of it , after a faint resistance , and , throwing it upon his own , encumber himself with the weight of both . This trivial incident impressed the old pupil mightily , for he stood there , gazing after them , until they were hidden from his view ; when he shook his head , as if he were troubled by some uneasy reflection , and thoughtfully retraced his steps to Salisbury . In the meantime , Martin and Tom pursued their way , until they halted , safe and sound , at Mr Pecksniff 's house , where a brief epistle from that good gentleman to Mr Pinch announced the family 's return by that night 's coach . As it would pass the corner of the lane at about six o'clock in the morning , Mr Pecksniff requested that the gig might be in waiting at the finger-post about that time , together with a cart for the luggage . And to the end that he might be received with the greater honour , the young men agreed to rise early , and be upon the spot themselves . It was the least cheerful day they had yet passed together . Martin was out of spirits and out of humour , and took every opportunity of comparing his condition and prospects with those of young Westlock ; much to his own disadvantage always .