midnight
Why not select topics of universal interest ? '' `` Like the Currie Brig or the shade of Montrose , '' I murmured slyly . `` To one who has ever eaten a doughnut , the subject is of transcendent interest ; and as for one who has not -- well , he should be made to feel his limitations , '' replied Francesca , with a yawn . `` Come , let us forget our troubles in sleep ; it is after midnight . '' About half an hour later she came to my bedside , her dark hair hanging over her white gown , her eyes still bright . `` Penelope , '' she said softly , `` I did not dare tell Salemina , and I should not confess it to you save that I am afraid Lady Baird will complain of me ; but I was dreadfully rude to the Reverend Ronald ! I could n't help it ; he roused my worst passions .