eight
o'clock
This time the verdict was altogether favorable , with no mention of the possibility of any aggravating circumstances . An inevitable feverishness , and a great lassitude , which must be met with absolute repose for several days , would be the only consequences of this dangerous prank . The proprieties resumed their normal sway , and it was no longer possible for Henri to remain beside the charming invalid . The Duchesse de Montgeron , who had passed the rest of the day with Mademoiselle de Vermont , did not return to her own dwelling until eight o'clock that evening , bearing the most reassuring news . Longing for fresh air and exercise , Henri went out after dinner , walked through the Champs-Elysees , and traversed the crossing at l'Etoile , in order to approach the spot where Zibeline lay ill . If one can imagine the feelings of a man of forty-five , who is loved for himself , under the most flattering and unexpected conditions , one can comprehend the object of this nocturnal walk and the long pause that Henri made beneath the windows of Zibeline 's apartment . A small garden , protected by a light fence , was the only obstacle that separated them .