seven o’clock
Even to John Westlock , in whom he was evidently disposed to place great confidence -LRB- which may indeed be said of every one of them -RRB- , he gave no explanation whatever . He merely requested him to return in the morning ; and with this for their utmost satisfaction , they left him , when the night was far advanced , alone . The events of such a day might have worn out the body and spirit of a much younger man than he , but he sat in deep and painful meditation until the morning was bright . Nor did he even then seek any prolonged repose , but merely slumbered in his chair , until seven o'clock , when Mr Tapley had appointed to come to him by his desire ; and came -- as fresh and clean and cheerful as the morning itself . ` You are punctual , ' said Mr Chuzzlewit , opening the door to him in reply to his light knock , which had roused him instantly . ` My wishes , sir , ' replied Mr Tapley , whose mind would appear from the context to have been running on the matrimonial service , ` is to love , honour , and obey . The clock 's a-striking now , sir . '