the hour of nine
Perhaps I may have more cause for anticipating a fortunate result than even your grace , as I have means of instantly ascertaining whether the persons to whom you have alluded have any share in this matter or not ; means which I must beg leave to keep secret , but which I shall not fail to employ at once . '' `` Oh , I was sure , '' replied the Duke , `` that if there was a man in England could do it , you would be the person . I know your activity and your courage too well , not to have every confidence in you . '' The coachman had received orders to drive quick ; and the hour of nine was just striking on the bell of an old clock at Chelsea when the carriage drove into the court-yard . Wilton sprang out after the Duke ; but he did not enter the house . `` I will but go to make some inquiries , '' he said , `` and join your grace in half an hour . I may learn something to-night , and under these circumstances it is right to lose no time .