about a quarter to one
`` We 've been remiss . When sentries are set the superior officers always make a point of going their rounds to see if they are all right . Go , Dick , and we 'll come with you . '' Uncle Dick protested , but we had our own way , and about a quarter to one on a bitter March night we let ourselves out and walked down to the works . For my part I would far rather have gone to bed , but after a few minutes the excitement of the proceeding began to assert itself , and I was bright and wakeful enough . We walked quickly and briskly on till we came to the lane by the factory wall ; but instead of turning down we all walked on along the edge of the dam , which gleamed coldly beneath the frosty stars . It was very full , for there had been a good deal of rain ; and though the air was frosty there was a suggestion of change and more rain before long .