a quarter to twelve
For a little longer the noise and revelry continued , until the moment came when the king 's hospitality , offering supper to his wearied guests , emptied the gardens of many of their frequenters . Inside his tent the sovereign was supping with his friends . By his side sat the Princess de Gonzague , who neither ate nor drank , but waited with an aching heart for midnight . At a quarter to twelve Bonnivet entered the tent and advanced towards the king . `` Sire , '' he said , `` there is a gentleman here who insists on immediate speech with you . He says you have appointed this time and place to meet him . '' Louis turned to the Princess de Gonzague , whose pale face had suddenly flushed .