midnight
So glorious an hour seemed of long duration . In case of accident there would be a score of good witnesses to swear that their friend the deputy had been drinking with them all the evening . Under the influence of wine and loud patriotism the flight of time is of no account . It was close on midnight when Latour entered the alley by the baker 's shop in the Rue Valette , walking slowly . Seated at the top of the stairs he found Sabatier . `` Yes , and asleep probably , '' said Sabatier , answering the question in his eyes . `` It was well done , '' said Latour .