one o'clock
David sat for some time drumming on his desk with the fingers of both hands . A succession of violent coughs came from the front room . His mouth and brows contracted in a wince , and rising , he put on his coat and hat and went slowly out of the bank . The Vaterland was advertised to sail at one o'clock , and it wanted but fifteen or twenty minutes of the hour . After assuring himself that his belongings were all together in his state-room , John made his way to the upper deck and leaning against the rail , watched the bustle of embarkation , somewhat interested in the people standing about , among whom it was difficult in instances to distinguish the passengers from those who were present to say farewell . Near him at the moment were two people , apparently man and wife , of middle age and rather distinguished appearance , to whom presently approached , with some evidence of hurry and with outstretched hand , a very well dressed and pleasant looking man . `` Ah , here you are , Mrs. Ruggles , '' John heard him say as he shook hands .