about three o'clock
She spoke again to the waiter as he turned to leave the room . `` And -- and will you find out what wine Mr. Challoner has with his dinner , as a rule ; and -- and serve the same this evening . '' The man hesitated , then : `` Mr. Challoner told me he should not be dining in this evening , madam , '' he said reluctantly . `` He came in about three o'clock , and went out again ; I think there was a message for him . He told me to tell you if you came in . '' He averted his eyes from Christine 's blanching face as he spoke . `` I am sure that is what Mr. Challoner said , madam , '' he repeated awkwardly .