nine o'clock
You know how the wolves have howled of late ; and I heard a panther scream last night , I thought . Do rouse the neighbors to advise and help ! '' The friends seized torches and were away to the first dwelling . The news flew around as fast as distance would permit ; and by nine o'clock the whole neighborhood were together with throbbing hearts and anxious looks . `` I fetched my horn and cow-bell , '' said Mr. Waldron ; `` I made a noise on the way . Horns will scare off painters , and wolves do n't like tootin ' or clatter a mite . '' `` And I brought mine , '' added Uncle Walter .