two o'clock
Having seen much of society , Maltboy was well aware that Mr. Chiffield 's mature age , his grim appearance , his sparse whiskers , and even the bald spot on the top of his head , were eminent advantages with which youth and bloom , and a full head of hair could not cope -- unless with the aid of that fascination which Matthew flattered himself that he possessed , and which , he thought , he had used to some purpose during his hurried conversation with his twentieth enslaver , Miss Whedell . The usages of New Year 's day , as well as frequent impatient nods from Quigg , and suggestive coughs from Overtop , would not permit of his staying longer . He therefore , rose to take his leave , his fellow pilgrims doing likewise , when Miss Whedell remarked that they were in a great hurry , and regretted that they could not remain a few minutes more . The captivated Maltboy toyed , with his hat in an uncertain way , and was half disposed to sit down again , when Quigg hastily produced his visiting list , and said , with his best business smile : `` We Should certainly be very happy , Miss Whedell ; but we have seventy-five calls still to make , and it is now -LRB- consulting his watch -RRB- two o'clock . '' ' As the three visitors withdrew -LRB- declining , at every step , a pressing invitation to taste the refreshments which were piled in mountainous form on a table in an adjoining alcove -RRB- , Maltboy exchanged a look of deep , sentimental meaning with Miss Whedell , who rose at least six inches from her chair , and followed it with a slight hostile glare at Mr. Chiffield , upon whose equable face it fell harmless . Overtop bowed coldly to everybody , as if he were disappointed in the human species ; and Quigg gave a parting grin at the room in general , and at nobody or nothing in particular , `` We 're all right , Top , '' whispered Maltboy , as they descended the steps to the sidewalk . `` She smiled slightly when I mentioned having seen her from our back parlor window .