nearly ten o'clock at night
I am sorry it must be so ; but this is a time of war , and I have no time to stand on ceremonies , '' replied her father , as he picked up the trunk , and tossed it on his shoulder as though he had done that kind of work before . He walked off with a firm step , in spite of his burden , taking the nearest way to the wharf where he had left the Bellevite . The distance was considerable , and the millionnaire was obliged to stop and rest two or three times ; and , though Florry insisted upon helping him , he would not allow her to do so . It was nearly ten o'clock at night when the wanderers reached their destination , and were hailed by the vigilant watch on the deck . `` Florence ! '' called the owner of the steamer when he was challenged , and gave the word that had been agreed upon . `` Pass , Florence , '' replied the sentinel .