about seven o'clock
-- he buttoned his coat -- `` and , what have I been thinking of ? Really I have been dreaming ; or am I as great a fool as Tittlebat ? '' Within a few minutes ' time he had quitted the walls , and descended through one of the turreted gateways , into the town . When , about seven o'clock on the morning after the delivery of the verdict , which , if sustained , consigned the Aubreys to beggary , they met to partake of a slight and hasty breakfast before setting off for Yatton , the countenances of each bore the traces of great suffering , and also of the efforts made to conceal it . They saluted each other with fervent affection , each attempting a smile -- but a smile , how wan and forced ! `` The moment has arrived , dear Agnes and Kate , '' said Mr. Aubrey , with a fond air but a firm voice , as his sister was preparing tea , in silence , fearful of looking at either her brother or sister-in-law ; `` the moment has arrived that is to try what stuff we are made of . If we have any strength , this is the time to show it ! ''