four o'clock
The paragraph went on to say that `` a large and reverent congregation witnessed the ceremony , but general regret was expressed at the absence of our respected Vicar through a temporary indisposition . We are glad to assure our readers that the reverend gentleman is well on the way to recovery , and indeed has already resumed his ministration in the parish , where his genial presence and quick sympathies , etc. '' This laid an obligation upon me to walk over to Gantick and inquire about my old friend 's health : which I did that same afternoon . Mrs. Kendall received me with the information that her husband was quite well again , and out-and-about ; that in fact he had started , immediately after luncheon , to pay a round of visits on the outskirts of the parish . On the nature of his late indisposition she showed herself reticent , not to say `` short '' in her answers ; nor , though the hour was four o'clock , did she invite me to stay and drink tea with her . On my way back , and just within the entrance-gate of the vicarage drive , I happened on old Trewoon , who works at odd jobs under the gardener , and was just now busy with a besom , sweeping up the first fall of autumn leaves . Old Trewoon , I should tell you , is a Wesleyan , and a Radical of the sardonic sort ; and , as a jobbing man , holds himself free to criticise his employers . `` Good afternoon ! ''