nearly nine o'clock
Shall we each take a lamp , or will candles be better ? '' `` Little girl ! '' exclaimed her brother , `` I had no idea that you were such a bunch of watch springs . It is nearly nine o'clock , and after the day 's work that you have done , it is time you were in bed . House exploring can be done to-morrow . '' `` Yes , indeed , Miss , '' said Phoebe , who stood by , anxious to shut up the house and retire to her own domicile , `` and I will go up into your room with you and show you about things . '' Half an hour after this , Miriam came out of her bedroom , holding a bit of lighted candle in her hand .