nine in the morning
He could now sufficiently examine on this side the ancient channels of the lava . There was no doubt in his mind that the most recent eruption had occurred at a far-distant epoch . He then returned by the same way , listening attentively to the subterranean mutterings which rolled like long-continued thunder , interrupted by deafening explosions . At nine in the morning he reached the corral . Ayrton awaited him . `` The animals are cared for , Captain Harding , '' said Ayrton . `` Good , Ayrton . ''