A few minutes before seven o'clock
Away from the Luxembourg the streets were deserted , save for a few night-birds who were slinking off to their own quarters . The Rue des Catonnes was in darkness , but I knew the way , and , mounting the stairs quickly , reached my room . `` The Cardinal must not be kept waiting , '' I muttered , `` but there is time for a short nap , '' and I got into bed . A few minutes before seven o'clock I crossed the courtyard of the Palais Royal , ascended the grand staircase , stopped a moment as usual to joke with the Guards ; and , traversing the corridor , reached Mazarin 's room just as his secretary came out . `` Go straight in , M. de Lalande . His Eminence expects you at seven , and the clock has given warning . '' The last stroke had not sounded as I entered the room .