seven o'clock
As for him , he had only been struck with a `` queer '' idea ; and he laughed to think that for a few moments he , Passepartout , the ex-gymnast , ex-sergeant fireman , had been the spouse of a charming woman , a venerable , embalmed rajah ! As for the young Indian woman , she had been unconscious throughout of what was passing , and now , wrapped up in a traveling blanket , was reposing in one of the howdahs . The elephant , thanks to the skillful guidance of the Parsee , was advancing rapidly through the still darksome forest , and , an hour after leaving the pagoda , had crossed a vast plain . They made a halt at seven o'clock , the young woman being still in a state of complete prostration . The guide made her drink a little brandy and water , but the drowsiness which stupefied her could not yet be shaken off . Sir Francis , who was familiar with the effects of the intoxication produced by the fumes of hemp , reassured his companions on her account . But he was more disturbed at the prospect of her future fate .