ten o’clock
`` A strange fellow , this Chichikov ! '' reflected Tientietnikov . `` A strange fellow , this Tientietnikov ! '' thought Chichikov , and then added aloud : `` Yes , I will go and see him at ten o'clock to-morrow ; but since my britchka is not yet altogether in travelling order , would you be so good as to lend me your koliaska for the purpose ? '' Tientietnikov 's good horses covered the ten versts to the General 's house in a little over half an hour . Descending from the koliaska with features attuned to deference , Chichikov inquired for the master of the house , and was at once ushered into his presence . Bowing with head held respectfully on one side and hands extended like those of a waiter carrying a trayful of teacups , the visitor inclined his whole body forward , and said : `` I have deemed it my duty to present myself to your Excellency .