Step 1: {Understanding Magnifying Power of a Telescope}
The magnification \( M \) of an astronomical telescope in normal adjustment (parallel rays) is given by:
\[
M = \frac{f_o}{f_e}
\]
where:
\( f_o \) is the focal length of the objective,
\( f_e \) is the focal length of the eyepiece.
Step 2: {Using Given Information}
It is given that \( M = 9 \), so:
\[
\frac{f_o}{f_e} = 9
\]
Also, the total distance between the objective and eyepiece is:
\[
f_o + f_e = 20
\]
Step 3: {Solving for \( f_o \) and \( f_e \)}
Using the given equations:
\[
9f_e + f_e = 20
\]
\[
10f_e = 20
\]
\[
f_e = 2 { cm}, \quad f_o = 18 { cm}
\]
Thus, the ratio of focal lengths is:
\[
\frac{f_o}{f_e} = 9
\]
Thus, the correct answer is \( 9 \).