A quarter to four
By the law which compels a man to sneeze when another man sets the example , Sir Duncan also drew forth his watch . `` I am trying to make my reply as accurate , '' said the lawyer , beginning to enjoy the position as a man , though not quite as a lawyer -- `` as accurate as your candor and confidence really deserve , Sir Duncan . The box containing that document , to which you attach so much importance -LRB- whether duly or otherwise is not for me to say until counsel 's opinion has been taken on our side -RRB- , considering the powers of the horse , that box should be about Stormy Gap by this time . A quarter to four by me . What does your watch say , sir ? '' `` The deed has been sent for , post-haste , has it ? And you know for what purpose ? ''