the hour of
nine
So they clasped hands , then , sighing , the Preacher turned and plodded on his lonely way . But , long after he had vanished down the moonlit road , Barnabas stood , his fists clenched , his mouth set , until he was roused by a sound near by , a very small sound like the jingle of distant spurs . Therefore , Barnabas lifted his head , and glanced about him , but seeing no one , presently went his way , slow of foot and very thoughtful . The hands of Natty Bell 's great watch were pointing to the hour of nine , what time Barnabas dismounted at the cross-roads , and tethering Four-legs securely , leaned his back against the ancient finger-post to wait the coming of Cleone . Now being old , and having looked upon many and divers men -LRB- and women -RRB- in its day , it is to be supposed that the ancient finger-post took more or less interest in such things as chanced in its immediate vicinity . Thus , it is probable that it rightly defined why this particular long-legged human sighed so often , now with his gaze upon the broad disc of the moon , now upon a certain point of the road ahead , and was not in the least surprised to see Barnabas start forward , bareheaded , to meet her who came swift and light of foot ; to see her pause before him , quick-breathing , blushing , sighing , trembling ; to see how glance met glance ; to see him stoop to kiss the hand she gave him , and all -- without a word . Surprised ?