quarter to twelve
Seems to me I 've had that proved ... Give 'em a chance , and _ they 're all good _ ... '' * * * * * Far in the stillness there sounded the sweet mad voice of the Garlands ' clock . It struck seven , and then two , and then fell silent . V. Vivian glanced at his watch . It seemed to be quarter to twelve , though he did not see how that was possible . He opened his office door , and stood listening . Presently he stepped through ; went walking without noise down the long hall , which was pitch-black but for a dim haze of light just perceptible at its extreme farther end . When he came to this small patch , the young man lifted the curtain , and stood motionless .