twenty minutes past two
After a short space of hurried reflection , I concluded that as I had twice as much credit in other quarters as it was prudent to use , I would ask a renewal of the note , which would be a great relief . It was better , certainly , than to suffer a protest . At the thought of a protest I shuddered , and started to see the parties to whom the note was due , feeling much as I suppose a culprit feels when about being arraigned for trial . It was twenty minutes past two when I called at their store . `` I am sorry , '' I said to one of the firm , whom I first met , speaking in a husky , agitated voice , `` to inform you that I shall not be able to lift my note that falls due to-day . '' His brows fell instantly . `` I had made every arrangement to meet it , '' I continued , `` and was to receive the money at one o'clock to-day , but was unexpectedly disappointed .