twelve o'clock
Herbert left the room and hurried home , for it was nearly twelve . On the way he stopped at the post office , and found a letter addressed to his mother . He did not recognize the handwriting , nor , such was his hurry , did he notice where it was postmarked . He had no watch , but thought it must be close upon twelve o'clock . So he thrust the letter into his pocket , and continued his way homeward on a half run . He was in time , for , just as he reached the front gate from one direction , the squire reached it from the other . `` Good morning , '' said the squire , a little stiffly .