nine o'clock
`` And now , dear , say good-night to mamma and go to bed , '' said her father , as he heard the clock striking . `` We will have to be up bright and early in the morning , and I want you to have a good sleep . '' By the time the stars were looking down Ruby was sound asleep in her little trundle-bed for the last time for many weeks . Ruby and Aunt Emma were to start at nine o'clock , and as there were a great many little things to be done before the travellers should get off , the whole house was astir very early in the morning . Ruby was very much excited over her journey , but there was a little lump that kept arising in her throat all the time as if it would choke her if she did not swallow it back . Ruthy was to go over to the station with her , and see her off , and it was hardly daybreak when she came over to Ruby 's house , eager to have as long a time as possible with her little friend before she should go away . Ruby felt as if she was a little queen , every one was so kind to her , and so anxious to please her in every way .