twelve o'clock
`` So . Well , I shall not question you . '' The speaker drew her companion closer and retucked the robes ; and silence fell upon the two , silence broken only by the wind , the flapping leather curtains , and the muffled howling of the postilion . It was twelve o'clock when the diligence drew up before the Corne d'Abondance . The host came out , holding a candle above his head and shading his eyes with his unengaged hand . `` Maître , I have brought you two guests , '' said the postilion , sliding off his horse and grunting with satisfaction . `` Gentlemen , I hope . ''