midnight
Mr. Hamilton Fynes inquired . `` In the first place , '' the station-master answered , `` a special train to London would cost you a hundred and eighty pounds , and in the second place , even if you were willing to pay that sum , it would be at least two hours before I could start you off . We could not possibly disorganize the whole of our fast traffic . The ordinary mail train leaves here at midnight with sleeping-cars . '' Mr. Hamilton Fynes held out a letter which he had produced from his breast pocket , and which was , in appearance , very similar to the one which he had presented , a short time ago , to the captain of the Lusitania . `` Perhaps you will kindly read this , '' he said . `` I am perfectly willing to pay the hundred and eighty pounds . ''