midnight before
Do n't cry no more , little Meg . ' She called softly up the stairs to say these last words , for she had started off immediately . Meg did as she had told her , and then waited with renewed hope for her return . It was past midnight before Kitty tapped quietly at the door , and she went out to her on the landing . But Kitty was alone , and Meg could hardly stand for the trembling which came upon her . ` Have n't you found father ? ' she asked .