9 P.M.
They were silent for a while ; then a solemn old eight-day clock with a fine tone struck loudly and deliberatedly in the room below . Katherine , with a smile , counted each stroke . `` Nine ! '' she exclaimed , when the last had sounded ; `` and though it is 9 P.M. , let it be the first hour of your new life . '' She rose , and passing her arm over Rachel 's shoulder , kissed her once more with sisterly warmth . `` Mr. Payne is waiting for me , so I must leave you . I have sent you some books ; I have but few here .