two o'clock
I enquired , turning from the telephone to take up my overcoat . `` I think not , sir , '' replied the woman , `` she is dressing . '' `` Then tell her I 'm called away , but I will see her at luncheon , '' I answered hurriedly , as I rushed out . Upon reaching my office , I found that my presence was required in Washington before two o'clock , and as I had not time to return home , I telephoned Sally for my bag , which she sent down to the station by Micah , the coachman . `` I hope to return early to-morrow , '' I said to the negro from the platform , as the train pulled out . In my anxiety over the possible collapse of the important B. and R. deal , the message that Sally had sent me that morning was crowded for several hours out of my thoughts . When I remembered it later in the afternoon , I sent her a telegram explaining my absence ; and my conscience , which had troubled me for a moment , was appeased by this attention that would prove to her that even in the midst of my business worries I had not forgotten her .