a quarter to two
-- and why have you so suddenly changed your mind ? '' `` For a reason which I hope will presently become evident , '' he said ; `` and as to my change of mind , unless I am greatly mistaken , the wily old Chinaman from whom I wrested this treasure was infinitely more clever than I gave him credit for being ! '' Through the open window came faintly to my ears the chiming of Big Ben . The hour was a quarter to two . London 's pulse was dimmed now , and around about us that great city slept as soundly as it ever sleeps . Other sounds came vaguely through the fog , and beside Nayland Smith I sat and watched him at work upon the Tûlun-Nûr box . Every knob of the intricate design he pushed , pulled and twisted ; but without result .