nine o'clock
I believed she preferred to have something for her slaves and herself to do , and moreover , probably , she felt that if she retired she should be thought a person of no consequence , whereas in her present position she received a great deal of attention . One thing was certain , that if those who lodged and boarded with her were very polite , and , on their return from any other place , brought her small presents , she was very indifferent as to their paying their bill ; nay , to those who were her favourites , her purse was open , and a handful of doubloons was freely tendered , if required . The living was the same as at a boarding-house . Breakfast was ready in the large hall by nine o'clock , and remained there until every one had come down at their own hour . Dinner was always ready at five o'clock , and then Crissobella presided at the table . She admitted civilians , army officers , and navy , down to midshipmen ; but warrant officers and captains of merchant vessels were considered too low . On the whole , it was a very pleasant establishment , as the private rooms were well furnished , the slaves numerous , and the attendance very good .