five minutes after eleven
Gabe offered him the choice of various tables ; he selected one which commanded a view of the entrances and ordered a perfunctory `` Scotch . '' Nervous and anxious , he was more troubled than he cared to admit even to himself . Fortunately , there were not many people in the cafe ; and his gaze , wandering about the place , soon halted before the small alcove in the east end containing a table with wine glasses , in waiting , set for a large party . The clock , back of the cigarstand , said it was five minutes after eleven . Bansemer impatiently watched the two doors leading to the street , and was beginning to wonder whether the message had reached the old clerk , when presently , the uncouth shape of Droom , appeared slinking through the so-called ladies ' entrance , with the shrinking attitude of one unaccustomed to fashionable restaurants and doubtful of his reception . Bansemer motioned to him . `` Just as soon as I can get my check , '' he was saying , at the same time , beckoning to a waiter ; `` we 'll move out of this .