midnight
Dyke Darrel flung down the morning paper , damp from the press , and began pacing the floor . `` What is it , Dyke ? '' questioned the detective 's sister Nell , who at that moment thrust her head into the room . Nell was a pretty girl of twenty , with midnight hair and eyes , almost in direct contrast with her brother , the famous detective , whose deeds of cunning and daring were the theme of press and people the wide West over . `` An express robbery , '' returned Dyke , pausing in front of Nell and holding up the paper . `` I am sorry , '' uttered the girl , with a pout . `` I sha n't have you with me for the week that I promised myself .