Twelve o’clock
`` Why , to-day , '' answered the Recorder , a little surprised by the self-possession of the condemned man . A sob was heard behind the door , and Cornelius turned round to look from whom it came ; but Rosa , who had foreseen this movement , had fallen back . `` And , '' continued Cornelius , `` what hour is appointed ? '' `` Twelve o'clock , sir . '' `` Indeed , '' said Cornelius , `` I think I heard the clock strike ten about twenty minutes ago ; I have not much time to spare . '' `` Indeed you have not , if you wish to make your peace with God , '' said the Recorder , bowing to the ground . `` You may ask for any clergyman you please . ''