twelve o'clock
But Mrs. Bailey was not alone in this lovely garden . Sitting on the lawn by her was the Frenchman who had been with her when Chester had first caught sight of her at the Casino the night before . The two were talking so earnestly that they only became aware of his approach when he was close to them , and though Chester was not a particularly observant man , he had an instant and most unpleasant impression that he had come too soon ; that Sylvia was not glad to see him ; and that the Frenchman was actually annoyed , even angered , by his sudden appearance . `` We might begin lunch a little earlier than twelve o'clock , '' said Sylvia , getting up . `` They serve lunch from half-past eleven , do they not ? '' she turned to the Comte de Virieu . `` Yes , Madame , that is so , '' he said ; and then he added , bowing , `` And now perhaps I should say good-bye .