half past four
All were deep in thought and cast their eyes around as if looking for some one ; slowly the Seneschal 's venerable face attracted and united all eyes . This was a sign that they were seeking a leader for their future expedition and that they offered the staff of office to the Seneschal . The Seneschal rose , understood the will of his comrades , and , rapping impressively on the table , he drew from his bosom a golden chain , on which hung a watch large as a pear . `` To-morrow , '' he said , `` at half past four , the gentlemen hunters and the beaters will present themselves at the forest chapel . '' He spoke , and moved from the table ; after him went the Forester . These two had to plan and arrange the chase . Even so act generals , when they ordain a battle for the morrow -- the soldiers throughout the camp clean their arms and eat , or sleep on cloaks or saddles , free from care , but the generals consult within the quiet tent .