nine o'clock
`` Oh ; Philistinism , '' was Fenton 's rejoinder , `` is not nearly so bad as the inanities that are talked about it . '' `` That sounds like a personal thrust at Mr. Hubbard , '' Kent observed ; and as Arthur disclaimed any intention of making it so , Mrs. Fenton gave the signal for rising . Hamlet ; i. -- 5 . It was fortunate for Fenton 's plans that most of his guests had early engagements that evening , and by nine o'clock he was able to leave the house with Rangely to take his way to the meeting of the Club . As they came out of the house , Thayer Kent was just saying good-by to Miss Mott after putting her into her carriage . Fenton 's fear lest he should be too late for the business meeting had made him follow rather closely in the steps of his departing guests , and he and Rangely were just in time to hear Ethel say , -- `` But I am going that way and I will drop you at the club . '' Kent hesitated an instant , and then followed her into the carriage .