Seven o'clock
... As for you , content yourself with ordinary police work , that is your business , and , if it gives you pleasure , continue your hunt for Fantômas , that will give you all the occupation you require ! ... Yes , '' continued the colonel , while Juve was clenching his fists with exasperation at this irony which was like so many flicks of a whip on his face , `` Yes , leave these serious affairs to us -- and occupy yourself with Fantômas ! '' Leaning on his window-sill , Jérôme Fandor was apparently keeping a strict watch on the comings and goings of the passers-by , who , having finished their Sunday walk , were bending their steps towards dinner , a quiet evening , and a reposeful night . Seven o'clock sounded from a neighbouring clock , its strokes borne through the misty atmosphere , darkened by fog : it was a peaceful moment , made for pleasurable relaxation ofter the activities of the day . Jérôme Fandor , however , was not enjoying the charm of the hour . Although his attitude was apparently tranquil , listless even , inwardly he was in a state of fury , a condition of feverish enervation . `` To be so near success , '' he thought ; `` to be on the point of bringing in a magnificent haul , and then to get myself locked up , like a fool !