five o'clock
He was about to proceed , and I to protest against his doing so , when an incident occurred which relieved the tension and gave a new turn to the course of events . Mrs. Perryman , who had left the room when the farmer resumed the history of the Tall Hat , though not to go beyond the reach of hearing , now emerged from the shadows and said in a quiet voice , `` Sam , stop talking a minute , and attend to business . Snarley Bob 's at the back door , and wants to know if you 're going to keep him waiting all night . He come for his wages at five o'clock , and it 's struck six some time ago . '' `` Give him a mug o ' ale , and tell him to go home , '' said Sam . `` I 've given him two mugs already , and he says he must see you afore he goes . '' `` Wait where you are , '' said Mr. Perryman to me , `` and I 'll be back in half a shake . ''