midnight
For an instant , an appreciable constraint manifested its presence , and Uncle Horace did not display his wonted tact when he accentuated it by a dry chuckle , _ à propos _ of nothing in particular . Curtis relieved the situation after a slight hesitation . `` Lady Hermione , I take it , will now go to bed , '' he said coolly , `` and , if she is wise , will refuse to unlock her door again till her maid comes in the morning . I purpose changing my clothes , in case I may have to accompany you on some midnight expedition . My uncle and aunt will tell us where they are staying , and arrange to meet us here at lunch to-morrow . You , Devar , being an approved night hawk , will join me in a cigar . How is that for a reasonable disposal of the company , Mr. Steingall ? ''