9. "Ten more than \( 32 \% \) of a number is 26 ."

To solve the problem, let's start by defining the unknown number as \( x \). According to the statement, \( 32\% \) of this number can be expressed as \( 0.32x \). The equation derived from the scenario becomes \( 0.32x + 10 = 26 \). To isolate \( x \), first, subtract \( 10 \) from both sides to get \( 0.32x = 16 \). Dividing both sides by \( 0.32 \) will yield \( x = 50 \). Now you’ve found that the mysterious number is \( 50 \)! It's a fun revelation, isn’t it? To check your work, simply substitute \( x \) back into the original context: \( 32\% \) of \( 50 \) is \( 16 \), and adding \( 10 \) gives \( 26 \) — everything checks out perfectly!