twelve o'clock
he asked . `` Whether I can bring good news , I know not ! '' replied the prince , a small slight man , with regular features and a spare black moustache , as he fixed his black eyes with a sad and enquiring look upon Count Platen ; `` I must first beg for your answer to the note I delivered this morning , the reply to which I was to wait for until this evening . You see , '' he said drawing out his watch , `` I have given my instructions the widest possible extension ; it is now twelve o'clock -- the day is ended . '' `` My dear prince , '' said Count Platen , `` I gave the note to the king immediately , the reply is now with his majesty ; I expect it back every moment , and I do not doubt we shall easily come to an understanding . '' The prince shook his head slightly . `` Though the answer is with his majesty , yet you must know , and I _ must _ '' -- he laid a stress upon the word -- `` urgently beg you to impart its purport .