twenty-five minutes after nine
As he spoke , he strode unconsciously away , folding his arms with that sort of joyous and complacent gesture which implies the idea of a man hugging himself in a silent delight . Assuredly had the most skilful physician then looked upon the ardent and all-lighted face , the firm step , the elastic and muscular frame , the vigorous air of Brandon , as he mentally continued his soliloquy , he would have predicted for him as fair a grasp on longevity as the chances of mortal life will allow . He was interrupted by the servant entering . `` It is twenty-five minutes after nine , sir , '' said he , respectfully . `` Sir , -- sir ! '' repeated Brandon . `` Ah , well !