Final answer:
The story most likely takes place around 7 o'clock in the evening, as indicated by the reference to the sun setting as Jim got home, and the tasks of the day, such as feeding the chickens, not yet being completed. Option number C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story is probably happening around 7 o'clock in the evening since it mentions that 'just as the sun was going down, Jim got home'. This indicates that the scene takes place at sunset, which typically occurs in the evening.
Additionally, it was noted that the day had been hot, and because the chickens had not yet been fed or given water, it implies the tasks of the day had not been concluded, which would be consistent with an evening timeframe.