one o'clock
said the duchess , as though she would have liked to say something else . And all in a moment I was through the gateway and crossing the paddock . But the duchess ran to the gate , crying : `` Mind you come again to-morrow ! '' My expedition consumed nearly two hours ; and one o'clock struck from the tower of the church as I slowly climbed the hill , feeling -LRB- I must admit it -RRB- that the rest of the day would probably be rather dull . Just as I reached the top , however , I came plump on Mlle. Delhasse , who appeared to be taking a walk . She bowed to me slightly and coldly . Glad that she was so distant -LRB- for I did not like her looks -RRB- , I returned her salute , and pursued my way to the hotel .