twelve o'clock
`` Yes , '' he answered , `` that is , Madame , what I expect to hear you say . It will then be for Mr. Pargeter to take what steps he judges proper . '' As the powerful car swung through the gates , Vanderlyn saw that the front-door was wide open , and that the English butler was waiting to receive them ; when the man saw that his mistress was not in the car , a look of perplexity came over his impassive face . `` Mr. Pargeter has been awaiting you , sir , for the last half hour , '' he said , `` he is very anxious to catch the twelve o'clock express . The luggage has already gone on to the station . Mr. Pargeter wished the car to wait , -- but -- but is it to wait , sir ? '' he asked , helplessly .