two in the afternoon
Some persons are said to intentionally cover the faults of their private life by public services , and vice versa ; but the Princesse de Cadignan made no such calculation . Possibly those who apparently so conduct themselves make none . Events count for much in such cases . On one of the first fine days in the month of May , 1833 , the Marquise d'Espard and the princess were turning about -- one could hardly call it walking -- in the single path which wound round the grass-plat in the garden , about half-past two in the afternoon , just as the sun was leaving it . The rays reflected on the walls gave a warm atmosphere to the little space , which was fragrant with flowers , the gift of the marquise . `` We shall soon lose de Marsay , '' said the marquise ; `` and with him will disappear your last hope of fortune for your son . Ever since you played him that clever trick , he has returned to his affection for you . ''