two o'clock
Theodore sat down beside it in solemn wonderment over the incidents , many and varied , that were constantly bringing him in contact with this man and his family . The great troubled eyes of the sick man followed his every movement , and he could not resist the impression that at last they seemed to recognize him and take in some thought of hope . It seemed terrible , this living death , this unutterable silence , and yet those staring eyes , he did not know whether it was a hopeful indication or otherwise , but at last they closed and the sufferer seemed to sleep heavily . Wearily passed the hours ; he chose not to leave his charge to meet the two o'clock train , but sent a carriage and waited in nervous torture for the whistle of the train . At last there was a sound of arrival , and eager voices of inquiry below . He left in charge the stupid little doctor , who was doing his utmost to keep awake , and went down stairs . They were all there , frightened and inquiring -- Mrs. Hastings , Dora , Pliny , and , oh joy !