eighteen minutes to four
There was a little dust on it ; he brushed it with the back of his coat-sleeve : `` My dear maître , if I can ever be of use to you ... . My best wishes , Mlle. Suzanne , and kind regards to M. Philippe . '' He took a heavy gold hunter from his pocket . `` M. Gerbois , it is now eighteen minutes to four : I authorize you to leave this room at fourteen minutes to four ... . Not a moment before fourteen minutes to four ... . Is it understood ? '' `` But they 'll enter by force ! ''