a quarter past eleven
`` Look at the time , '' said he , drawing attention to the gilt clock on an occasional table . The phrase `` hard and cold '' echoed in his ears to mock him . `` It is certainly late ! '' she gasped , as she realised that the hands pointed to a quarter past eleven . `` But I am so lonely and dull . Do sing to me ! '' A mischievous smile twisted his lips as he struck the opening bars of _ The Dear Homeland _ .