eight o’clock
Have no fear ; I am aware of your antipathies ; you must have divined me sufficiently to feel sure that I should wish you to do nothing that could be displeasing to you ; presumption , moreover , would not thus approach you . You have been a friend to me , you have shown me kindness and great indulgence ; know , therefore , that to-morrow I must bid you farewell . -- Do not take back your word , ' I exclaimed , seeing her about to speak , and I went away . `` At eight o'clock one evening towards the end of May , Foedora and I were alone together in her gothic boudoir . I feared no longer ; I was secure of happiness . My mistress should be mine , or I would seek a refuge in death . I had condemned my faint-hearted love , and a man who acknowledges his weakness is strong indeed .