twenty-three minutes to two
The marriage was to take place at two ... . Suppose she never came at all ! After three trains in succession had disappointed him his vague feelings of dread gave place to a profound depression ... . But she came at last , and it was twenty-three minutes to two . He hurried her luggage downstairs , booked it with his own , and in another minute they were in a hansom -- their first experience of that species of conveyance -- on the way to the Vestry office . They had said scarcely anything to one another , save hasty directions from Lewisham , but their eyes were full of excitement , and under the apron of the cab their hands were gripped together . The little old gentleman was business-like but kindly .