the hour of nine
Wisely , therefore , he left his companion in peace , and returned to his own anxious and engrossing meditations . The travellers did not rest till they arrived at Dover . The vessel started early the following morning , and Aubrey , who was much fatigued , retired to rest . Maltravers glanced at the clock upon the mantelpiece ; it was the hour of nine . For him there was no hope of sleep ; and the prospect of the slow night was that of dreary suspense and torturing self-commune . As he turned restlessly in his seat , the waiter entered to say that there was a gentleman who had caught a glimpse of him below on his arrival , and who was anxious to speak with him . Before Maltravers could answer , the gentleman himself entered , and Maltravers recognized Legard .