about half past nine
Strout knocked lightly at the kitchen door , and it was opened by Mrs. Mason . `` Is the Deacon at home ? '' inquired he , endeavoring to disguise his voice . `` No , '' said Mrs. Mason , `` he has gone to Eastborough Centre on some business , but told me he would be back about half past nine . '' `` Is Hiram here ? '' asked Strout . `` He 's out in the kitchen polishing up his bugle , '' said Mrs. Mason .