nine o'clock
So it occurred that Aunt Annie laid the left slipper -LRB- sole upwards -RRB- in front of the brisk red fire , while Mrs. Knight laid the right one . Then the servant entered the dining-room -- a little simple fat thing of sixteen or so , proud of her cap and apron and her black afternoon dress . She was breathing quickly . ` Please 'm , Dr. Dancer says he 'll come at nine o'clock , or as soon after as makes no matter . ' In delivering the message the servant gave a shrewd , comprehending , sympathetic smile , as if to say : ` I am just as excited about your plot as you are . ' ` Thank you , Sarah . That will do . '