It was about this time when the clock struck nine, but it always was before,
and when you're stood at death's door is there anything more reassuring than the clock letting you know your time here's expiring?

I'm wiring the family so that they can be near me when both hands of the clock are at twelve.

Clues are that close,

near enough to kiss you
far enough away to miss you
but
the answer is hidden.

No schedule attached
no premium due,
the sunlight fails
and
the evening will catch you
unawares.