nine o'clock
But we have been sitting a long time here -- shall we walk ? '' He was evidently anxious to change the subject . I rose slowly as though my joints were stiff with age , and drew out my watch , a finely jeweled one , to see the time . It was past nine o'clock . `` Perhaps , '' I said , addressing him , `` you will accompany me as far as my hotel . I am compelled to retire early as a rule -- I suffer much from a chronic complaint of the eyes as you perceive , '' here touching my spectacles , `` and I can not endure much artificial light . We can talk further on our way .