half past ten o'clock
Then , seeing that the farmer was suspicious and anxious for an explanation , he insisted on talking , and related the whole story in such a clear and concise manner that his hearers were thoroughly convinced . The farmer thawed out , and showed himself in his true colors -- a genial , kind-hearted old man . He told the boys his name was Adam Plunkett , and laughingly apologized for mistaking them for thieves . When Mrs. Plunkett heard that they had eaten nothing since breakfast she immediately began to set the table -- in spite of the fact that it was then half past ten o'clock . Ned refused to be treated as an invalid any longer , so Mr. Plunkett gave him a suit of clothes to wear while his own were drying . The food was soon ready , and the famished boys did it full justice . `` I reckon you 'll want to go to bed now , '' said Mr. Plunkett ; `` you must be worn out after all that tramp .