the hour of eight
Crossing the tiles from the stairs toward this gentleman , moreover , he was covered with glances from the guests , eyes of swift , searching intensity . `` How interested they are in a stranger , '' he thought . There was a sharpness of needles and acid in the air . Low chimes from an indefinite source now struck the hour of eight . A Chinese stepped up to the desk beside Bedient . `` You are dining with Señor Rey ? '' the manager inquired lazily .