two o’clock
After a short stroll he went into his study and read the daily paper . He then took up a book till dinner-time . He dined , and afterwards forgot himself in a story of African travels . It was only the discomfort of the intense heat which at length reminded him that , though it was now past two o'clock , he had received no letter from Mrs. Hooper . But he was resolved not to think about her , for thoughts of her , he knew , would lead to fears concerning the future , which would in turn force him to decide upon a course of action . If he determined to commit the sin , his guilt would thereby be increased , and he would not pledge himself to refrain from it . `` She could n't write last night with the Deacon at her elbow all the time , '' he decided , and began to read again .