Eight o'clock
But what time is it ? ' She went to the family clock and opened the glass , for the hour was not otherwise discernible by night , and indeed at all times was rather a thing to be investigated than beheld , so much more wall than window was there in the apartment . ` It is nearly eight , ' said she . ` Eight o'clock , and neither dress nor man , ' said Mrs. Hall . ` Mother , if you think to tantalize me by talking like that , you are much mistaken ! Let him be as late as he will -- or stay away altogether -- I do n't care , ' said Sally . But a tender , minute quaver in the negation showed that there was something forced in that statement .