about ten o'clock
Thou hast saved me , and my ancient Chamberlain . Those under the portico are conspirators . But come , let us join them . '' IT was about ten o'clock when the Emperor and Princess Irene appeared on the portico , and , moving toward the northern side , wended slowly through the labyrinth of flowers , palms , and shrubs . The courtiers and dignitaries , upon their approach , received them in respectful silence , standing in groups about the tables . A chair , with arms , high back , and a canopy , looking not unlike a sedilium , had been set in an open space . The reservation was further marked by a table in front of the chair , and two broad-branched palm trees , one on each side .