nearly four o’clock
Hamel distinctly heard a slow , soft whisper from Doctor Sarson . `` Shall I go round to the front and see that he is in bed ? '' `` No need , '' Mr. Fentolin replied calmly . `` It is nearly four o'clock . Better not to risk the sound of your footsteps upon the pebbles . Now ! '' The door swung noiselessly open .