four o'clock
Edward Henry and Mr. Marrier worked together admirably that afternoon on the arrangements for the corner-stone-laying . And -- such was the interaction of their separate enthusiasms -- it soon became apparent that all London -LRB- in the only right sense of the word `` all '' -RRB- must and would be at the ceremony . Characteristically , Mr. Marrier happened to have a list or catalogue of all London in his pocket , and Edward Henry appreciated him more than ever . But towards four o'clock Mr. Marrier annoyed and even somewhat alarmed Edward Henry by a mysterious change of mien . His assured optimism slipped away from him . He grew uneasy , darkly preoccupied , and inefficient . At last , when the clock in the room struck four , and Edward Henry failed to hear it , Mr. Marrier said : `` I 'm afraid I shall have to ask you to excuse me now . ''