about eight o’clock in the morning
The newcomer opened his lips to protest , but Sir Edward held out his hand . `` One moment , '' he begged . `` Our friend here -- Mr. J. B. Coulson from New York -- has brought a letter from America . He is sailing tomorrow , -- leaving London somewhere about eight o'clock in the morning , I imagine . He wishes to take back a verbal reply . The letter , you will understand , comes from a Mr. Jones , and the reply is delivered in the presence of -- Mr. Smith . Our friend here is not personally concerned in these affairs .