six in the evening
`` I feel I may almost venture to assure you she will think twice before she looks at the god Mars again . '' `` So long as she does not obtain the protection of his buckler I do not care , '' retorted Madame . A proud , defiant look of the queen-mother was the reply to this objection , which was by no means deficient in _ finesse _ ; and both of them , almost sure of their victory , went to look for Maria-Theresa , who had been engaged , while awaiting their arrival , in endeavoring to disguise her impatience . It was about half-past six in the evening , and the king had just partaken of some refreshment . He lost no time : but no sooner was the repast finished , and business matters settled , than he took Saint-Aignan by the arm , and desired him to lead him to La Valliere 's apartments . The courtier uttered a loud exclamation . `` Well , what is that for ?