nine o'clock
That profound principle of legislation , which concedes the right in order to maintain quiet , is admirably adapted to forming sinners ; and , if carried out in favor of all who may happen to covet their neighbors ' goods , would , in a short time , render this community the very paradise of knaves . As for Joshua Brigham , I saw no more of him that night ; for he quitted the farm on leave , just as it got to be dark . Where he went I do not know ; but the errand on which he left us could no longer be a secret to me . As the family retired early , and we ourselves were a good deal fatigued , everybody was in bed by nine o'clock , and , judging from myself , soon asleep . Previously to saying `` good-night , '' however , Miller told us of the meeting of the next day , and of his intention to attend it . `` He knows the game ; how true he keeps the wind ! Silence . ''