nine o'clock
His heart gave a great throb , and he started to his feet . The gentleman was saying : `` I trust you will reach home safely and comfortably . '' And Mrs. Burnham replied : `` Oh , there is no doubt of it , Mr. Goodlaw ! I have telegraphed to James to meet us at the station ; we shall be there before nine o'clock . '' `` I will see that you are comfortably settled , '' he said , as they crossed the room toward the waiting train . For a moment Ralph stood , wondering and uncertain . Then there came into his mind a sudden resolution to speak to them , to tell them who he was , and why and how he was here , and ask them to help him .