nine o'clock
It was a dusty drive to the river , but comparatively cool at this time of day . The cousins did not see the red vest of Tom Hotchkiss on the way . He had doubtless got over the river before them . It was nine o'clock when the mules splashed down into the ford . Manuel drew up his feet carefully , so as not to get them wet , although he was barefooted . `` If they got washed he 'd die of the shock , '' whispered Marty to Janice . In one place the mules were body deep in the yellow , sluggish flood .