ten o'clock precisely
`` It shall be done . And so her ladyship is to go on a journey at ten o'clock to-night ? What an hour to set out ! '' `` Yes , at ten o'clock precisely , and the blessing of God go with her ! '' All was bustle and confusion in the Hotel de Soissons . A crowd of workmen filled its halls ; some on ladders , regilding walls and ceilings ; some on their knees waxing the inlaid floors : and others occupied in removing the coverings , and dusting the satin cushions of the rich furniture of the state apartments . The first upholsterers in Paris had been summoned to the work of preparation , and the general-in-chief of the gilders stood in their midst , giving orders to his staff , and sending off detachments for special service .