a quarter before three
`` True , '' replied that more homely and less stage effect arguer , which we term Knowledge of the world ; `` but this would be neither useful nor dignified -- common sense never quarrels with any one . Call upon Lord Dawton , if you will -- ask him for his promise , with your second best smile , and receive his excuses with your very best . Then do as you please -- break with him or not -- you can do either with grace and quiet ; never make a scene about any thing -- reproach and anger always do make a scene . '' `` Very true , '' said I , in answer to the latter suggestion -- and having made up my mind , I repaired a quarter before three to Lord Dawton 's House . `` Ah , Pelham , '' said the little minister ; `` delighted to see you look so much the better from the country air ; you will stay in town now , I hope , till the end of the season ? '' `` Certainly , '' my lord , `` or , at all events , till the prorogation of parliament ; how , indeed , could I do otherwise with your lordship 's kind promise before my eyes . Mr. -- , the member for your borough of -- , has , I believe , accepted the Chiltern Hundreds ?