nine o'clock
The very fact that the words `` Commercial Room '' were painted on the door proved to those who understood such matters that there was a doubt in the case . They had no coffee room at the Bull , and strangers who came that way were of necessity shown into that in which the gentlemen of the road were wont to relax themselves . Certain commercial laws are maintained in such apartments . Cigars are not allowed before nine o'clock , except upon some distinct arrangement with the waiter . There is not , as a rule , a regular daily commercial repast ; but when three or more gentlemen dine together at five o'clock , the dinner becomes a commercial dinner , and the commercial laws as to wine , & c. , are enforced , with more or less restriction as circumstances may seem to demand . At the present time there was but one occupant of the chamber to greet Mr. Gilmore when he entered , and this greeting was made with all the full honours of commercial courtesy . The commercial gentleman is of his nature gregarious , and although he be exclusive to a strong degree , more so probably than almost any other man in regard to the sacred hour of dinner , when in the full glory of his confraternity , he will condescend , when the circumstances of his profession have separated him from his professional brethren , to be festive with almost any gentleman whom chance may throw in his way .