eight o'clock
`` Becky and I strolled down toward the stables , but it was too dark to inspect the thoroughbreds I had heard so much about , so we returned to the house . `` As we passed the great barn we saw men busily engaged in packing all kinds of produce and supplies in long hemp sacks to be carted to Nashville the following day . In the sewing room the ladies were still plying needles that flashed in and out as if speed would save a life . `` At eight o'clock a hot supper was served , and at nine the neighbors left for their homes . `` That night , after we retired to our rooms , Rebecca came into my room for a cozy chat . She looked very pretty as she sat on the corner of the bed hugging her knees up in her arms . '' ` Selina , it 's a shame you are dragged into such a vacation !