nine o'clock
Robbie was unable to hire a horse in order to set off in pursuit of his friends ; nor were his wits so far distraught by the difficulties tormenting them that he was unable to perceive that , even if he could afford to ride , his chance would be inconsiderable of overtaking two men who had already three hours ' start of him . He went into the taproom to consult the driver of the Carlisle coach , who was taking a glass before going to bed -- his hours of work being in the night and his hours of rest being in the day . That authority recommended , with the utmost positiveness of advice , that Robbie should take a seat in his coach when he left for the North that night . `` But you do n't start till nine o'clock , they tell me ? '' said Robbie . `` Well , man , what of that ? '' replied the driver ; `` yon two men will have to sleep to-night , I reckon ; and they 'll put up to a sartenty somewhear , and that 's how we 'll come abreast on 'em .