eight o'clock
`` In practical matters , '' answered Paul , laughing , `` I consider I am the better man , but you certainly beat me at metaphysics . Prophecy decidedly comes under the heading of metaphysics , so I strike my colors before you . '' `` The sooner the better , '' said Malvine ; `` especially as it is quite unpardonable of you to start off on a long discussion when our poor friend must be so tired and sleepy . '' It was eight o'clock by this time , and Wilhelm really felt the want of rest . But before going to his room he asked after his godson , little Willy . Malvine was evidently expecting this , she ran to the door and called into the next room : `` Come here , Willy -- come quick -- Uncle Eynhardt is here and wants to see you . '' Whereupon the boy came bounding in , and threw himself with a shout of delight upon Wilhelm 's neck .