nearly nine o’clock
Sam gave a short nod of intelligence , and left the room . Mr. Pickwick drew the silk handkerchief once more over his head , And composed himself for a nap . Mr. Weller promptly walked forth , to execute his commission . It was nearly nine o'clock when he reached Goswell Street . A couple of candles were burning in the little front parlour , and a couple of caps were reflected on the window-blind . Mrs. Bardell had got company . Mr. Weller knocked at the door , and after a pretty long interval -- occupied by the party without , in whistling a tune , and by the party within , in persuading a refractory flat candle to allow itself to be lighted -- a pair of small boots pattered over the floor-cloth , and Master Bardell presented himself .