two o'clock
He opened the door and entered . There was a long table running through the centre of the apartment , from the door to the rear . On each side , against the sides of the room , were small tables intended for four persons each . There were but few eating , as the busy time at down-town restaurants usually extends from twelve to half-past one , or two o'clock , and it was now nearly three . Ben entered and took a seat at one of the side tables , laying his bundle on a chair beside him . A colored waiter came up , and stood awaiting his orders . `` Give me a plate of roast beef , '' said Ben .