a quarter after
twelve
This year , now , will be the happiest of my life , all but the year ' 53 , when I came into possession of the Manor , and married Henrietta . The last touch is given to the old house ; Anthony 's marriage -- the thing I had nearest my heart -- is settled to my entire satisfaction ; and by-and-by you will be buying a little wedding-ring for Tina 's finger . Do n't shake your head in that forlorn way ; -- when I make prophecies they generally come to pass . But there 's a quarter after twelve striking . I must be riding to the High Ash to meet Markham about felling some timber . My old oaks will have to groan for this wedding , but ' -- The door burst open , and Caterina , ghastly and panting , her eyes distended with terror , rushed in , threw her arms round Sir Christopher 's neck , and gasping out -- ` Anthony ... the Rookery ... dead ... in the Rookery ' , fell fainting on the floor . In a moment Sir Christopher was out of the room , and Mr. Gilfil was bending to raise Caterina in his arms .