nine o'clock
But then it was that the fervor of little Guzzy 's soul showed itself ; for , wrapped in the folds of a waterproof overcoat , he paced his accustomed beat with the calmness of a faithful policeman . And he had his reward . As one night he stood unseen against the black background of a high wall , opposite the residence of Mrs. Wyett , he heard the gate -- _ her _ gate -- creak on its hinges . It could be no ordinary visitor , for it was after nine o'clock -- it must be _ he _ . Ha ! the lights were out ! He would be disappointed , the villain !