He meant to be home before the clock struck ten.
"Come round with me, then," urged the lad.
"What time is it ?" asked Andrew.
"Only a little after nine o'clock," was replied.
"Are you certain ?" "Oh, yes.

I heard the clock strike a short time ago.

It isn't more than a quarter past nine." "I thought it was later than that." "No.

It's early yet; so, come along.

I want to talk to you." Thus urged, Andrew went with the boy.