a quarter past nine
But in Paris it was different ; there one could not commit such deeds with impunity . He regretted that he had not remained where he was ; but he had hoped to improve his condition -- and for that reason he was in Paris ! He passed the Vaudeville and stopped at the Cafe Americain , debating as to whether he should take that `` glass . '' Before deciding , he glanced at a clock ; it was a quarter past nine . He knew that when the beer was placed in front of him , he would drink it ; and then what would he do at eleven o'clock ? So he walked on , intending to go as far as the Madeleine and return . When he reached the Place de l'Opera , a tall , young man passed him , whose face he fancied was familiar .