a quarter past seven
In a little while -- but a while too long for his impatience -- his call was acknowledged at the exchange . He gave Stella Croyle 's number and waited . Whilst he waited he looked at his watch . The time was a quarter past seven . An unfamiliar and sleepy voice answered him from her house . `` Will you put me on to Mrs. Croyle ? '' he requested , and the reply came back : `` Mrs. Croyle went away with her maid last night . ''