eight o'clock
The speaker remained with the group , as if to protect them from further approaches . To Jim his attitude seemed to be almost that of a guard . It deepened the mystery that already hung about the party . It was now past eight o'clock , and naturally some provision would soon have to be made for passing the night . Jim pondered . Twenty-six guests would prove a severe tax on their already cramped accommodations . Still , the thing could be arranged ; it must be .