about nine o'clock
But talk to me about the attics on Place Vendôme ! A thick carpet on the floor , the bed out of sight in an alcove , Algerian curtains with red stripes , a green marble clock , the whole lighted by patent self-regulating lamps . Our dean , M. Chalmette , at Dijon had no better quarters than that . I arrived about nine o'clock with Monpavon 's old Francis , and I must confess that my appearance created a sensation , preceded as I was by the fame of my academic past , by my reputation for refined manners and great learning . My fine bearing did the rest , for I must say that I know how to carry myself . M. Noël , very dark skinned , with mutton-chop whiskers , and dressed in a black coat , came forward to meet us . `` Welcome , Monsieur Passajon , '' he said ; and taking my cap with silver ornaments , which , as I entered the room , I held in my right hand according to custom , he handed it to an enormous negro in red and gold livery .