His reverie was broken by the voice of Mr.Wilks.
"A quarter to eight ?" said that gentleman in-credulously; "it can't be." "I thought it was later than that," said Hardy, simply.
Mr.Wilks gasped, and with a faint shake of his head at the floor abandoned the thankless task of giving hints to a young man who was too obtuse to see them; and it was not until some time later that Mr.Hardy, sorely against his inclinations, gave his host a hearty handshake and, with a respectful bow to Miss Nugent, took his departure.
"Fine young man he's growed," said Mr.Wilks, deferentially, turning to his remaining visitor; "greatly improved, I think." Miss Nugent looked him over critically before replying.

"He seems to have taken a great fancy to you," she remarked.
Mr.Wilks smiled a satisfied smile.

"He came to ask my advice about business," he said, softly.

"He's 'eard two or three speak o' me as knowing a thing or two, and being young, and just starting, 'e came to talk it over with me.

I never see a young man so pleased and ready to take advice as wot he is." "He is coming again for more, I suppose ?" said Miss Nugent, carelessly.
Mr.Wilks acquiesced.