a quarter to seven
`` I think , '' he answered after a moment 's pause , `` that it affords an excellent excuse for you to run down to Holt to-night . '' `` Oh , good ! '' Dick exclaimed , jumping with excitement . `` And there 's a train at a quarter to seven that we can catch ; it gets to Holt Stacey at five minutes to eight . '' Jack glanced up at the clock . `` In three quarters of an hour 's time , '' he said . `` That will suit you , Mike , and you 'll be glad , I know , of the excuse to go down to Holt to see the flowers and -- and things .