half after nine
He was a young man , expensively and fashionably dressed , whose mien was considerably prepossessing , and whose countenance bespoke some portion of discernment . I described to him the man whom I sought . `` I am in search of the same man myself , '' said he , `` but I expect to meet him here . He may lodge elsewhere , but he promised to meet me here at half after nine . I have no doubt he will fulfil his promise , so that you will meet the gentleman . '' I was highly gratified by this information , and thanked my informant with some degree of warmth . My gratitude he did not notice , but continued : `` In order to beguile expectation , I have ordered supper ; will you do me the favour to partake with me , unless indeed you have supped already ? ''