six o'clock
A separate entrance from the street was out of the question , but the draperies were to be disposed in such a manner that the instant Madame de Gramont and her family passed the threshold they were completely secluded . Madeleine was standing in the hall giving her orders , when Maurice reappeared . Finding her occupied , he passed on to his father 's chamber . It was now six o'clock . Dinner was served for three persons . Madeleine summoned her housekeeper and requested her to watch beside Count Tristan while his son dined . On entering the count 's room Madeleine assured herself that there was no change in the patient 's condition , and then said , `` Come , Ruth , dinner is served ; come , Maurice , if you assume the office of _ garde malade _ , I must take care that your strength is not exhausted . ''