midnight
The quiet , formal evening was a pleasant relief , although I was troubled with a desire to inform Mrs. Somers of Ben 's engagement , for the sake of exasperating her . We came home too early for bed , Adelaide said ; beside , she had music-hunger . I must sing . Mrs. Somers was by the fire , darning fine napkins , winking over her task , maintaining in her aspect the determination to avert any danger of a midnight interview with Desmond . That gentleman was at present sleeping on a sofa . I seated myself before the piano , wondering whether he slept from wine , ennui , or to while away the time till I should come . I touched the keys softly , waiting for an interpreting voice , and half unconsciously sang the lines of Schiller : `` I hear the sound of music , and the halls Are full of light .