eight o'clock
`` I will try to do right , '' said Paul , placing his hand in that of his companion , `` and if ever I am tempted to do wrong , I will think of you and of my mother , and that thought shall restrain me . '' `` It 's time to go bed , folks , '' proclaimed Mrs Mudge , appearing at the door . `` I ca n't have you sitting up all night , as I 've no doubt you 'd like to do . '' It was only eight o'clock , but no one thought of interposing an objection . The word of Mrs. Mudge was law in her household , as even her husband was sometimes made aware . All quietly rose from their seats and repaired to bed . It was an affecting sight to watch the tottering gait of those on whose heads the snows of many winters had drifted heavily , as they meekly obeyed the behest of one whose coarse nature forbade her sympathizing with them in their clouded age , and many infirmities .