seven o'clock
So , by sunset the major was fairly established over Mrs. Harvey 's shop . It was not the place which Tom would have chosen ; he was afraid of `` running over '' poor Grace , if he came in and out as often as he could have wished . Nevertheless , he accepted the major 's invitation to visit him that very evening . `` I can not ask you to dinner yet , sir ; for my ménage will be hardly settled : but a cup of coffee , and an exceedingly good cigar , I think my establishment may furnish you by seven o'clock to-night ; -- if you think them worth walking down for . '' Tom , of course , said something civil , and made his appearance in due time . He found the coffee ready , and the cigars also ; but the Major was busy , in his shirt sleeves , unpacking and arranging jars , nets , microscopes , and what not of scientific lumber ; and Tom proffered his help . `` I am ashamed to make use of you the first moment that you become my guest . ''