half past two
But beginning to perceive that the handcuffs were not for me , and that the military had so far got the better of the pie as to put it in the background , I collected a little more of my scattered wits . `` Would you give me the time ? '' said the sergeant , addressing himself to Mr. Pumblechook , as to a man whose appreciative powers justified the inference that he was equal to the time . `` It 's just gone half past two . '' `` That 's not so bad , '' said the sergeant , reflecting ; `` even if I was forced to halt here nigh two hours , that 'll do . How far might you call yourselves from the marshes , hereabouts ? Not above a mile , I reckon ? ''