nine o'clock
There was a strange fear about her heart -- a dread of coming evil , that chilled her feelings , and threw a dark cloud over her spirits . In the meantime , Martin had gone to the dinner-party , firm in his resolution not to touch a drop of ardent spirits . But the taste of wine had inflamed his appetite , and he drank more and more freely , until he ceased to feel the power of his resolution , and again put brandy to his lips , and drank with the eagerness of a worn and thirsty traveller at a cooling brook . It was nine o'clock when the company arose , or rather attempted to arise from the table . Not all of them could accomplish that feat . Three , Martin among the rest , were carried off to bed , in a state of helpless intoxication . Hour after hour passed away , the anxiety of Mrs. Martin increasing every moment , until the clock struck twelve .