two o’clock
`` If you are going up the mountain , I pray you will allow me to accompany you . I never visit Montreal without ascending it at least once , '' said Mr. Clarkson . `` If you do not wish me to go shopping , I will not intrude , but I will feel myself slighted if you compel me to ascend the mountain alone . '' The widow feigned to give a reluctant consent , and accordingly they arranged to meet on Place d'Armes at two o'clock , and to drive to the base of the mountain together . At that time the beautiful mountain from which Montreal derives its name , and most of its beauty , had not been acquired by the city . It was private property , and there were no elegant roads by which to drive to its summit ; indeed , it was only by the courtesy of the proprietors that persons were allowed to ascend the famous hill , and enjoy the beautiful scenery and bracing air : even then the task of ascending was no easy one , and ladies were generally glad of the company of one or more of the hardier sex , if only to assist them in clambering up the steep ascent . Mr. Clarkson went to lunch , and then to the Corn Exchange to transact some business , arriving in Place d'Armes precisely at two o'clock .