eleven o'clock
It was rarely that he dined with his family , but usually came home early in the evening . Since seven o'clock , the tea-table had been standing in the floor , awaiting his return . At eight o'clock , as he was still absent , supper was served to the children , who , soon after , retired for the night . It was after eleven o'clock as we have said , before Mortimer returned . His face was pale and haggard . He entered quietly , by means of his night-key , and went noiselessly up to his chamber . He found his wife lying across the bed , where , wearied with watching , she had thrown herself and fallen asleep .