eleven
o'clock
Poland 's face went a trifle paler . Whom could the stranger be ? Why did he desire an interview at that hour ? -- for it was already eleven o'clock . `` Sonia dear , '' he said quietly , turning to his daughter , `` will you leave me for a few moments ? I must see what this gentleman wants . '' The girl followed Felix out somewhat reluctantly , when , a few seconds later , a short , middle-aged Frenchman , with pointed grey beard and wearing gold pince-nez , was ushered in .