about two in the morning
I have not withdrawn one penny from my heirs , -- I have disposed of nothing but my income . Messieurs Cremiere , Massin , and Minoret my nephew are members of the family council appointed for Ursula , and I wish them to be present at the rendering of my account . '' These words , heard by Massin and quickly passed from one to another round the ball-room , poured balm into the minds of the three families , who had lived in perpetual alternations of hope and fear , sometimes thinking they were certain of wealth , oftener that they were disinherited . When , about two in the morning , the guests were all gone and no one remained in the salon but Savinien , Bongrand , and the abbe , the old doctor said , pointing to Ursula , who was charming in her ball dress ; `` To you , my friends , I confide her ! A few days more , and I shall be here no longer to protect her . Put yourselves between her and the world until she is married , -- I fear for her . '' The words made a painful impression .