twelve o'clock
I do not believe , therefore , that hostilities will break out again , owing to his reluctance to submit to these two conditions . '' `` I shall not yield , '' said Napoleon , `` although it seems to me disgraceful to commence another war for the sake of fifty millions , and when I know that my own army is in need of repose . I -- '' The emperor interrupted himself , and listened to the clock , which struck twelve . `` Indeed , it is already twelve o'clock ! My guard must have been waiting for me in the palace-yard for some time . '' He stepped to the window and looked down . `` My splendid guard has already formed in line , '' he said , `` and there is a vast crowd of spectators from Vienna to see the parade . ''