six o'clock
Mrs. Paine also refused her consent unless Hal would promise to return home after the termination of the mission on which they were now engaged , and Hal would make no such promise . An hour later Uncle John returned and to him the two mothers told their troubles . `` Well , '' said Uncle John calmly , `` I 'll fix 'em . '' It was now after six o'clock , and all descended to dinner . The meal over , Uncle John called the two lads into his own room . Motioning them to seats , he stepped out the door , and quickly turned the key in the lock . `` Now , '' he said from the outside , `` we shall see whether you 'll stay or not . ''