nine o'clock
It was some time before a coherent word could be spoken by mother or son , and it was not until they had knelt down together and returned thanks to God for Ralph 's restoration that they were able to talk quietly of what had passed . Then Mrs. Conway poured out question after question , but Ralph refused to enter upon a narrative of his adventures . `` It 's a long story , mother , and will keep very well till to-morrow . It is past nine o'clock now , and I am sure that you want a night 's rest after this excitement ; and after fourteen hours on a coach , I sha 'n' t be sorry to be in bed myself . Beside , I want you to tell me first how you have been getting on while I have been away , and all the news about everyone ; but even that will keep . I think , mother , a cup of tea first and then bed will be best for us both . '' The next morning Ralph related all his adventures to his mother , who was surprised indeed at his story .