nine o'clock
If I had my way I 'd whip such people until I slashed all the wickedness out of them . ' ` But he wo n't bring any women here ; we wo n't allow it , ' said Kate , a little shocked , and she strove to think how they should put a stop to such behaviour . ` If Mr. Lennox does n't conduct himself properly -- ' ` Of course I shall try to do my duty , and if Mr. Lennox respects himself I shall try to respect him . ' She spoke these words hesitatingly , but the admission that she possibly might respect Mr. Lennox satisfied Kate , and not wishing to press the matter further , she said , suddenly referring to their previous conversation : ` But did n't you say that it was nine o'clock ? ' ` It 's more than nine now . ' ` Oh , Lord ! oh , Lord !