a quarter past nine
Both pairs of ankles were aching badly from the unaccustomed exercise , but neither wanted to admit it . Silvey loosened one of his skate straps . `` Got your watch , John ? '' It showed a quarter past nine . `` Our mothers 'll be waiting for us , '' he said . Thus a way to honorable retreat was found . They stamped stiffly back to the warming house and took off their skates .