a quarter to nine
dear Uncle Cliff ! '' she cried , rapturously , while she led him toward the reception-room , holding to his arm tightly as if by some chance he might escape . `` How ever did you get up here so soon ? It 's only a quarter to nine , now . '' `` Taxi , Honey . And the train was on time , fortunately . Come over to the light and let me have a look at you .