eight o'clock
As the hour for supper drew near the gathering in the sitting-room became considerable , and as each newcomer presented himself , Jacky , with thoughtful hospitality , caused another place to be set at her bountiful table . No one was ever allowed to pass a meal hour at the ranch without partaking of refreshment . It was one of the principal items provided for in the prairie creed , and the greatest insult to be offered at such time would have been to leave the house before the repast . At eight o'clock the girl announced the meal with characteristic heartiness . `` Come right along and feed , '' she said . `` Who knows what to-night may bring forth ? I guess we ca n't do better than drink success to our friend , Sergeant Horrocks .