eight o’clock
When the growing light had at last dispersed these phantoms , the morning broke so pale , so mournful , so melancholy , that even the marquis 's spirits sank . Not a single insurgent was to be seen , and the high roads were free ; but the grey valley wore a gruesomely sad and deserted aspect . The fires had now gone out , but the bells still rang on . Towards eight o'clock , Rougon observed a small party of men who were moving off along the Viorne . By this time the gentlemen were half dead with cold and fatigue . Seeing no immediate danger , they determined to take a few hours ' rest . A national guard was left on the terrace as a sentinel , with orders to run and inform Roudier if he should perceive any band approaching in the distance .