4:45
The telephone rang . * * * * * `` Four thirty , Mr. Carter , '' said the voice of the night clerk in the receiver . It was time to catch the five thirty Moon ship . He splashed cold water on his face and the back of his neck until he was awake , took a hot shower , dressed rapidly , and gave up his key at the desk at 4:45 . `` A letter for you , Mister Carter , '' she smiled , handing it to him . From the wall speakers a mild but penetrating voice began repeating , `` Bus line for spaceport leaving in twelve minutes . All passengers for Luna City , Moon Base , Asteroid Belt and points out , please go to the landing deck .