nine in the morning
`` I always eat here , as it is cheaper than to take a boarding-house , I think ; and , besides , you can always have just what you call for . If you take my advice , you 'll take your meals here , too , '' said Wilkins , assuming a very patronizing air , as he rang the little table bell for the waiter . Arthur thanked him for his kindness , and asked him when they would probably see Mr. Delancey . `` He 's only in the store from nine in the morning till three in the afternoon , '' replied Wilkins . `` You will see him shortly after we get back there . '' When their meal was over , arm in arm they took their way back to the store . It was n't nine o'clock yet , so they did n't walk very briskly , but looked about them , and made their comments to each other on the appearance of the buildings , the streets , etc. , etc. , and Arthur drew some comparisons between them and those in New-York .