eight o'clock
Wish you could be with us . '' `` I wish I could , '' replied Mr. Upton , smiling . `` Suppose we eat dinner now so that you will be ready for them when they arrive . '' Promptly at eight o'clock a big touring car drew up in front of the house , and Walter was down the steps before the two figures in the tonneau could disentangle themselves from the robes . Three voices mingled in a joyous shout , there was a swift clasping of hands in the Scout grip , and then the three boys started up the steps to the open door , where Mr. Upton stood waiting with outstretched hand . `` Welcome to our city , Pat ! '' he cried heartily .