about eight o'clock
Mr. Dudley wanted to stop any romantic nonsense between her and Wharton , but could never quite make out whether she cared for him or not . Esther thought not . That evening they all hoped that Hazard would come in to tell them what other scenes had occurred , and , under this little excitement , Mr. Dudley felt strong enough to appear like himself , although he dared not rise from his sofa . At about eight o'clock they were gratified . Mr. Hazard appeared , and was received with such cordiality and intimacy as went far to make him feel himself a member of the family . `` Thank you , '' said Mr. Dudley . `` We have done nothing but run to the watch-tower to see if you were coming .