about seven o’clock
Vivian tried to oppose him , but without success . The infuriated ruffian sheathed his weapon in the heart of the Baroness . Vivian shrieked , and fell upon her body , and , to his horror , found himself embracing the cold corpse of Violet Fane ! Vivian and Essper mounted their horses about seven o'clock . At eight they had reached a small inn near the Forest Councillor 's house , where Vivian was to remain until Essper had watched the entrance of the Minister . It was a few minutes past nine when Essper returned with the joyful intelligence that Owlface and his master had been seen to enter the Courtyard . Vivian immediately mounted Max , and telling Essper to keep a sharp watch , he set spurs to his horse .