the hour of six
`` A la bonne heure ! Then , suppose we fix upon the plot of open ground just behind the hill to the left of the Casa Ghirlande -- between that and the Villa Romani -- it is quiet and secluded , and there will be no fear of interruption . '' I bowed again . `` Thus it stands , '' continued the marquis , affably -- `` the hour of six -- the weapons pistols -- the paces to be decided hereafter when the other seconds arrive . '' I professed myself entirely satisfied with these arrangements , and shook hands with my amiable coadjutor . I then looked round at the rest of the assembled company with a smile at their troubled faces . `` Gentlemen , '' I said , `` our feast has broken up in a rather disagreeable manner -- and I am sorry for it , the more especially as it compels me to part from you .