eight o'clock
Well , so long . '' He went on to his store where he was overtaken by Clark who had tramped back from the rapids . The visitor was muddy and no longer immaculate and there was a trace of fatigue on his face , but he looked as cheerful and determined as ever . At that moment the village crier passed up the street swinging a raucous bell and announcing in stentorian tones that a meeting would be held in the town hall that night at eight o'clock to consider matters of prime importance to the citizens at large . The crier tramped on , and Filmer glanced up inquiringly . `` Wo n't you change your mind and come to the house with me ? It is a safe bet you 'll be more comfortable . ''