twelve o’clock
At the end of that time the schoolbell rang , and the boys trooped back into the schoolroom . Hector sat at his desk looking tranquil and at ease . He alone seemed unaware of the fate that was destined for him . At twelve o'clock the morning session closed . Then came an intermission of an hour , during which the day scholars either ate lunch brought with them , or went to their homes in the village to partake of a warm repast . At ten minutes past twelve , a red-armed servant girl made her appearance at the back door looking out on the playground , and rang a huge dinner bell . The boys dropped their games , and made what haste they could to the dining room .