about six o’clock
A subtle fire flames within their breasts and darts outwardly about them , like the rays of a nimbus around the heads of divine personages in works of religious art ; through it they see all Nature glorious , and woman radiant . Are they not then like those haloed saints , full of faith , hope , ardor , purity ? The young Breton found the company assembled in the little salon of Camille 's suite of rooms . It was then about six o'clock ; the sun , in setting , cast through the windows its ruddy light chequered by the trees ; the air was still ; twilight , beloved of women , was spreading through the room . `` Here comes the future deputy of Brittany , '' said Camille Maupin , smiling , as Calyste raised the tapestry portiere , -- `` punctual as a king . '' `` You recognized his step just now , '' said Claude to Felicite in a low voice . Calyste bowed low to the marquise , who returned the salutation with an inclination of her head ; he did not look at her ; but he took the hand Claude Vignon held out to him and pressed it .