twelve o’clock
Meanwhile Don Fadrique , although pressing hard upon his adversary , had generously avoided wounding him , and when at last by a dexterous movement he wrested his sword from him . Lucila 's husband , surprised at the unexpected advantage , and in alarm at being thus disarmed , retreated a few steps . But Fadrique threw the weapon adroitly into the air , and catching it again near the point of the blade , he said , as he gracefully presented the hilt to his opponent , `` Take it , Senor , and I hope our affair of honor is now settled , as you will grant under these circumstances that I am only here to show that I fear no sword-thrust in the world . The bell of the old cathedral is now ringing twelve o'clock , and I give you my word of honor as a knight and a soldier that neither is Dona Lucila pleased with my attentions nor am I pleased with paying them ; from henceforth , and were I to remain a hundred years in Malaga , I would not continue to serenade her in this spot . So proceed on your journey , and God be with you . '' He then once more greeted his conquered adversary with serious and solemn courtesy , and withdrew . Heimbert followed him , after having cordially shaken hands with the two youths , saying , `` No , dear young sirs , do not let it ever again enter your heads to interfere in any honorable contest .