eight o'clock
`` But , baron , '' resumed M. Baleinier , in a firm voice , `` that is my opinion . '' `` It was not mine , doctor , '' said the princess ; `` like M. Tripeaud , I considered it important to establish the fact by an entry in the report , and I saw , by the confused and troubled countenance of the magistrate , how painful it was to register the scandalous conduct of a young person placed in so high a position in society . '' `` Certainly , madame , '' said Adrienne , losing patience , `` I believe your modesty to be about equal to that of this candid commissary of police ; but it seems to me , that your mutual innocence was alarmed a little too soon . You might , and ought to have reflected , that there was nothing extraordinary in my coming home at eight o'clock , if I had gone out at six . '' `` The excuse , though somewhat tardy , is at least cunning , '' said the princess , spitefully . `` I do not excuse myself , madame , '' said Adrienne ; `` but as M. Baleinier has been kind enough to speak a word in my favor , I give the possible interpretation of a fact , which it would not become me to explain in your presence . '' `` The fact will stand , however , in the report , '' said Tripeaud , `` until the explanation is given . ''