midnight
`` Well , do what you can . The matter is important . I am very anxious to find someone to obtain trustworthy information about the British fleet , and you know we do n't spare money . '' Penurot was ready to attempt his difficult task at once , and took leave of Heideck , promising to meet him soon after midnight at the same tavern . Heideck left the restaurant soon after him , and walked along the quay Van Dyck , to cool his heated brow . In time of war the town presented a strangely altered appearance . There was a swarm of German soldiers in the streets ; the usual busy traffic at the harbour had entirely ceased .