four o'clock
It was now early in April , and the family was expected home some time in May . The light brougham was to be fresh done up , and as Colonel Blantyre was obliged to return to his regiment it was arranged that Smith should drive him to the town in it , and ride back ; for this purpose he took the saddle with him , and I was chosen for the journey . At the station the colonel put some money into Smith 's hand and bid him good-by , saying , `` Take care of your young mistress , Reuben , and do n't let Black Auster be hacked about by any random young prig that wants to ride him -- keep him for the lady . '' We left the carriage at the maker 's , and Smith rode me to the White Lion , and ordered the hostler to feed me well , and have me ready for him at four o'clock . A nail in one of my front shoes had started as I came along , but the hostler did not notice it till just about four o'clock . Smith did not come into the yard till five , and then he said he should not leave till six , as he had met with some old friends . The man then told him of the nail , and asked if he should have the shoe looked to .