eight o'clock
When there was a score of persons present , Schaunard asked whether it was not time for a round of drinks . `` Presently , '' said Marcel . `` We are waiting for the arrival of the influential critic to set fire to the punch . '' At eight o'clock the whole of the guests had arrived , and the execution of the program commenced . Each item was alternated with a round of drink of some kind , no one ever knew what . Towards ten o'clock the white waistcoat of the influential critic made its appearance . He only stayed an hour , and was very sober in the consumption of refreshments .