about nine o’clock
The merchant was much vexed , nevertheless he thanked his relative and neighbour , and said that he would shortly see into the matter , and for that purpose would shut himself up one night in his neighbour 's house , that he might see if anyone visited his wife . Lastly , he pretended to start on a journey , and told his wife and his servants that he did not know when he should return . He started in the early morning , but returned the same evening , and having left his horse at some house , came secretly to his cousin , and peeped through a little lattice , expecting to see that which would hardly have pleased him . He waited till about nine o'clock , when the gallant , whom the damsel had informed that her husband was away , passed once or twice before his lady-love 's house , and looked at the door to see if he might enter , but found it closed . He guessed that it was not yet time , and whilst he strolled about waiting , the good merchant , who thought that this was the man he wanted , came down , and went to his door , and said , `` Friend , the lady heard you , and as she is afraid that the master may come back , she sent me down to let you in , if you please . '' The gallant , thinking it was the servant , followed him , the door was opened gently , and he was conducted into a chamber in which there was a large bin , which the merchant unlocked and made the young man enter , that he should not be discovered if the husband returned . `` My mistress will come and talk to you and let you out , '' added the merchant as he turned the key in the lock .