about seven o'clock
A magnetic attraction seemed drawing him on -- on -- to the centre of light and joy -- his lady 's presence . Dmitry and an Italian servant awaited his arrival ; not an instant 's delay for luggage called a halt . Tompson and the Italian were left for that , and Paul departed with his trusty guide . It was about seven o'clock , the opalescent lights were beginning to show in the sky , and their reflection in the water , as he stooped his tall head to enter the covered gondola . It was all too beautiful and wonderful to take in at once , and then he only wanted wings the sooner to arrive , not eyes to see the passing objects . Afterwards the strange soft cry of the gondoliers and the sights appealed to him ; but on this first evening every throb of his being was centred upon the one moment when he should hold his beloved one to his heart . He could hardly contain his impatience , and walk sedately beside Dmitry when they ascended the great stone staircase -- he felt like bounding up three steps at a time .