nine o'clock
He looked tired and pallid with overwork and lack of exercise . `` Yes , '' he said , and searched among the papers with which the desk was littered . `` There was a telephone message just now -- '' He found and consulted some pencilled memoranda . `` You are to call at Sir William Thorogood 's house at nine o'clock . There may be a letter or a message for you to take up to the Commander-in-Chief . '' The speaker picked up a paper-knife and examined it with the air of one who saw a paper-knife for the first time and found it on the whole disappointing . `` The Sea Lords are dining there , '' he added after a pause .