Only at twelve noon it might be partly realized when the prolonged "toots" of seven factory whistles at once let off, so to speak, the hour.

Elgin liked the demonstration; it was held to be cheerful and unmistakable, an indication of "go-ahead" proclivities which spoke for itself.

It occurred while yet Dr Drummond and Mr Murchison stood together in the store door.
"I must be getting on," said the minister, looking at his watch.

"And what news have you of Lorne ?" "Well, he seems to have got through all right." "What--you've heard already, then ?" "He telegraphed from Toronto on Saturday night." Mr Murchison stroked his chin, the better to retain his satisfaction.

"Waste of money--the post would have brought it this morning--but it pleased his mother.