one o’clock
Had Mr. Pickwick been alone , these multiplied obstacles would have completely put an end to the pursuit at once , but old Wardle was not to be so easily daunted ; and he laid about him with such hearty good-will , cuffing this man , and pushing that ; strapping a buckle here , and taking in a link there , that the chaise was ready in a much shorter time than could reasonably have been expected , under so many difficulties . They resumed their journey ; and certainly the prospect before them was by no means encouraging . The stage was fifteen miles long , the night was dark , the wind high , and the rain pouring in torrents . It was impossible to make any great way against such obstacles united ; it was hard upon one o'clock already ; and nearly two hours were consumed in getting to the end of the stage . Here , however , an object presented itself , which rekindled their hopes , and reanimated their drooping spirits . ` When did this chaise come in ? ' cried old Wardle , leaping out of his own vehicle , and pointing to one covered with wet mud , which was standing in the yard .