nine o'clock
He was a typical waiter -- pasty-faced , unwholesome-looking -- but he had small eyes of a greenish cast , and they were expressive . `` I think , sir , '' he said , `` you 've some idea yourself , then , that Mr. Morrison has been getting into a bit of trouble . '' `` We wo n't discuss that , '' Laverick answered . `` You must either go away -- it 's past nine o'clock and I have n't had my dinner yet -- or you must treat me as you would Mr. Morrison . '' The man looked upon the carpet for several moments . `` Very well , sir , '' he said , `` there 's no great reason why I should put myself out about this at all . The only thing is -- '' He hesitated .