three o'clock in the morning
`` It is true , I do not understand you , '' grumbled the Minister of War . `` Why -- if your errand be peaceable -- break into my house ? '' `` Because it was urgently necessary to see monsieur instantly . Monsieur will reflect upon the reception one would receive did one ring the front door-bell and demand audience at three o'clock in the morning ! '' `` Well ... '' Monsieur Ducroy conceded dubiously . Then , on reflection , he iterated the monosyllable testily : `` Well ! What is it you want , then ? ''