noon
For the last ten years he had labored without ambition , and had been successful . His name was well known as a journalist , and his salary was ample . Before that time he had striven ambitiously , but fruitlessly , patiently , but as in a quicksand , until , on a day , he had none to strive for but himself , and then success had come . Since noon , seven hours and twenty-nine minutes , said the clock before him . His anniversary was near . Mr. Bixby drew the letters near him , and untied the package . Just then there came a knock at his door , and , before he had determined whether or not he should say , `` Come in , '' the door opened , and an elderly gentleman stepped into the apartment .