eight o'clock
They enjoyed the lonely flaring of the gas-jets as a gust of wind drew through the station ; they shared the gloom and isolation of a man who took a seat in the darkest corner of the room , and sat there with folded arms , the genius of absence . In the patronizing spirit of travellers in a foreign country they noted and approved the vases of cut-flowers in the booth of the lady who checked packages , and the pots of ivy in her windows . `` These poor Bostonians , '' they said ; `` have some love of the beautiful in their rugged natures . '' But after all was said and thought , it was only eight o'clock , and they still had an hour to wait . Basil grew restless , and Isabel said , with a subtile interpretation of his uneasiness , `` I do n't want anything to eat , Basil , but I think I know the weaknesses of men ; and you had better go and pass the next half-hour over a plate of something indigestible . '' This was said ` con stizza ' , the least little suggestion of it ; but Basil rose with shameful alacrity . `` Darling , if it 's your wish -- '' `` It 's my fate , Basil , '' said Isabel .