nine o'clock before
The bar more than fulfilled Mr. Stiles 's ideas as to its cosiness , and within the space of ten minutes he was on excellent terms with the regular clients . Into the little , old-world bar , with its loud-ticking clock , its Windsor-chairs , and its cracked jug full of roses , he brought a breath of the bustle of the great city and tales of the great cities beyond the seas . Refreshment was forced upon him , and Mr. Burton , pleased at his friend 's success , shared mildly in his reception . It was nine o'clock before they departed , and then they only left to please the landlord . `` Nice lot o ' chaps , '' said Mr. Stiles , as he stumbled out into the sweet , cool air . `` Catch hold -- o ' my -- arm , George . Brace me -- up a bit . ''