five
minutes past seven
` Not often so early as this , ' I replied , with amazing composure , considering all the circumstances of the case . ` How far do you purpose to extend your walk ? ' ` I was thinking of returning -- it must be almost time , I think . ' He consulted his watch -- a gold one now -- and told me it was only five minutes past seven . ` But , doubtless , you have had a long enough walk , ' said he , turning towards the town , to which I now proceeded leisurely to retrace my steps ; and he walked beside me . ` In what part of the town do you live ? ' asked he .