about
eleven o'clock
To go out and face the slander which must already have crept forth on its way -- to see Elsworthy and ascertain whether he had come to his senses , and try if anything could be done for Rosa 's discovery -- to exert himself somehow , in short , and get rid of the feverish activity which he felt consuming him , -- that was what he longed to do . But , on the other hand , it was Saturday , and Mr Wentworth was conscious that it would be more dignified , and in better taste altogether , if he went on writing his sermon and took no notice of this occurrence , with which , in reality , he had nothing to do . It was difficult , but no doubt it was the best ; and he tried it accordingly -- putting down a great many sentences which had to be scratched out again , and spoiling altogether the appearance of the sermon-paper . When a message came from Mr Wodehouse 's about eleven o'clock , bringing the news that he was much worse and not expected to live , and begging Mr Wentworth 's immediate presence , the Curate was as nearly glad as it was possible for a man to be under the circumstances . He had `` a feeling heart , '' as even Elsworthy allowed , but in such a moment of excitement any kind of great and terrible event seemed to come natural . He hastened out into the fresh morning sunshine , which still seemed thrilling with life and joy , and went up Grange Lane with a certain sense of curiosity , wondering whether everybody was already aware of what had happened . A long way off a figure which much resembled that of the Rector was visible crossing over to Dr Marjoribanks 's door ; and it occurred to the Curate that Mr Morgan was crossing to avoid him , which brought a smile of anger and involuntary dislike to his face , and nerved him for any other encounter .