nine o'clock
To all of which he listened with a praiseworthy attention , giving at least silence , which was doubtless all the answer Emma required . But Agatha , whose sympathy in these things was , as before said , at present small , grew half ashamed , half vexed , and finally rather angry -- especially when she saw the pale weariness that gradually overspread Mr. Harper 's face . More than once she hinted that he should have the armchair , or lie down , or rest in some way ; but he took not the least notice ; sitting immovably in his place , which happened to be next herself , and vaguely looking across the table towards Mrs. Thornycroft . At nine o'clock , becoming paler than ever , he bestirred himself , and talked of leaving . `` I ought to be going too . It is not far , and as our roads agree , I will walk with you , '' said Agatha , simply . He seemed surprised -- so much so , that she almost blushed , and would have retracted , save for the consciousness of her own frank and kindly purpose .