midnight
thou art all goodness and perfection ! I am undone by want of merit ; I am unworthy to possess thy charms , which heaven bath destined for the arms of some more favourite being . '' She guessed the cause of my disquiet , upbraided me gently for my suspicion , and gave me such flattering assurances of her eternal fidelity , that all my doubts and fears forsook me , and peace and satisfaction reigned within my breast . At midnight I left the fair nymph to her repose , and , being let out by Miss Williams at the garden gate by which I entered , began to explore my way homeward in the dark , when I heard at my back a noise like that of a baboon when he mews and chatters . I turned instantly , and , perceiving something black , concluded I was discovered by some spy , employed to watch for that purpose ; aroused at this conjecture , by which the reputation of the virtuous Narcissa appeared in jeopardy , I drew my sword , and would have sacrificed him to her fame , had not the voice of Strap restrained my arm , it was with great difficulty he could pronounce , `` D -- d -- d-do ! mum -- um -- um -- murder me if you please . '' Such an effect had the cold upon his jaws , that his teeth rattled like a pair of castanets .