five o'clock in the afternoon
Anastase , on finding himself in the small hours of the morning with Faustina on his hands and knowing that discovery must follow soon after day-break , had boldly brought her to the Palazzo Saracinesca and had demanded Corona 's assistance . As the artist thought the matter over , he became more and more convinced that he had understood the princess 's conduct , and the reflection made him redden with shame and anger . He determined to seize the first moment that presented itself for an explanation with the woman who had wronged him . He unexpectedly found himself at liberty towards five o'clock in the afternoon and made haste at once to reach the Palazzo Saracinesca . Knowing that no one would be allowed to be in the streets after dark , he felt sure of finding Corona without visitors , and expected the most favourable opportunity for talking over the subject which distressed him . After waiting several minutes in one of the outer halls he was ushered in , and to his extreme annoyance found himself in the midst of a family party . He had not counted upon the presence of the men of the household , and the fact that the baby was also present did not facilitate matters .