eight o'clock
I must be gone . Remember -- I have trusted you . '' She left the room , closing the door noiselessly , and Regina was lost in perplexing conjectures concerning the significance of her parting warning . It was not yet eight o'clock when she descended to the breakfast-room , but Mr. Palma was already there , and stood at the window , with an open newspaper which he appeared to scan very intently . In answer to her subdued `` Good-morning , '' he merely bowed , without turning his head , and she rang the bell and took her place at the table . While she scalded and wiped the cups -LRB- one of his requirements -RRB- , he walked to the hearth , glanced at his watch , and said : `` Let me have my coffee at once . I have an early engagement .