the hour of
twelve
The cards bore the same name . With the others they went into the dining-room . Mr. Thauret found himself seated next to Mr. Barnes , whilst on the other side of the detective sat Mr. Fisher . It need scarcely be said that the dinner was enjoyable and enjoyed , though it must be admitted that all awaited anxiously the hour of twelve . It will be as well perhaps , therefore , to come immediately to the _ dénouement _ , for which all were assembled . The last course had been served , and coffee and nuts were on the table , when the clock chimed the hour for which all were anxious . Promptly at the first stroke Mr. Mitchel arose .