a quarter to nine
He drew up at a cottage door , where a couple of rough-looking men were waiting about , one of whom held the horse while the doctor descended , and Syd followed into the room , where a poor fellow lay in great agony with a badly fractured leg . This was reduced , Syd looking on , and handing the doctor splints and bandages as they were required . After this the pair re-entered the gig , and drove back toward the Heronry . `` Just a quarter to nine , Syd . You 'll be back in time for breakfast . '' `` I think I could set a broken leg now , '' said Syd , whose thoughts were still at the cottage . `` Bless the boy ! ''