midnight
I saw that the dear woman had yet one question to ask , and had been earnestly hoping to hear something that would spare her the necessity of asking . But Titbottom had resumed his usual tone , after the momentary excitement , and made no further allusion to himself . We all sat silently ; Titbottom 's eyes fastened musingly upon the carpet , Prue looking wistfully at him , and I regarding both . It was past midnight , and our guest arose to go . He shook hands quietly , made his grave Spanish bow to Prue , and , taking his hat , went towards the front door . Prue and I accompanied him . I saw in her eyes that she would ask her question , And as Titbottom opened the door , I heard the low words : `` And Preciosa ? ''