nine o'clock
The family rose and breakfasted early , for an intense excitement reigned throughout the house . Agnes begged to be allowed to remain in her own room ; and though , in compliance with the entreaties of her friends , she endeavored to eat , she could not swallow a morsel . Mr. Wharton came early ; and soon after breakfast , he and Dr. Rodney went out . At nine o'clock the court were to assemble , to hear the verdict ; and from that moment , Agnes seated herself at the window , with her hands pressed on her aching forehead , and her eyes straining to catch the first glimpse of them as they returned . She sat thus for an hour or more at the window , and at the end of that time the crowds began to pass the house , and she soon caught sight of Dr. Rodney and her uncle . They did not hasten as if they had joyful news to tell , and as Agnes in her agitation rose as they approached the gate , and watched their faces as they came up the gravel walk , she saw there enough to tell her the whole story ; and pressing both hands upon her heart she sat down again , for she had no longer strength to stand . In a few moments she heard her uncle 's step coming slowly towards her room .