a quarter before eight
`` We must go back again , Alfred . Those fellows will never get along if they are not looked after . Come , Miles . Ladies , I shall expect you to be ready at exactly a quarter before eight . His Imperial Majesty is to arrive at eight precisely , and I must be there to receive him . You , Madame , will have to receive your guests in the drawing-room . '' The ladies went up-stairs , and Lord Nidderdale followed them .