eight o'clock
Just then his face seemed to be illuminated by an inspiration . His eyes twinkled with fun . But his reflections were interrupted by a call to supper . Tea time was occupied in the discussion of family matters and his aunt related bits of private history that kept his attention well occupied until eight o'clock , at which time Miss Elizabeth usually retired for the night . Jem was tired too , and was soon up-stairs and fast asleep . It seemed hardly anytime at all ere Jem was in the barn again ready to begin work on the fence . He had now a clear idea regarding it and , smiling often , he worked with a will .