seven in the evening
`` I understand , sir -- you wish me to go to the dear old Congo Government and apologize -- I shall be ready in ten minutes . '' `` What I really want you to do , '' said Sanders patiently , `` is to take the _ Wiggle _ up stream and get that box . '' `` I quite understand , sir , '' said Bones , nodding his head . `` To-day is the 8th , to-morrow is the 9th -- the box shall be in your hands on the 15th by half-past seven in the evening , dear old sir . '' He saluted and turned a baleful glare upon the girl , the import of which she was to learn at first hand . `` Duty , Miss Patricia Hamilton ! Forgive poor old Bones if he suddenly drops the mask of _ dolce far niente _ -- I go ! ''