midnight
He placed money in my hand , and bade me farewell ! but in such a tone , and with such a look , that I felt his senses were gone , and I would have stayed him , but it was then too late . Breaking from my embrace , he sprang upon his horse , which was ready saddled , and rode off , taking the direction of Edmonton ; while I , with a heart full of distress and misgiving , pursued my way to London . Ere midnight , my sad presentiments were verified . A messenger traced me out , bringing intelligence of the direful event that had happened , and informing me that my father was a prisoner at Theobalds . As soon as I could procure means of reaching the palace , I set forth , and arrived here about an hour ago , when , failing in my efforts to obtain an interview with my father , who is closely confined , and none suffered to come near him save with authority from the Secretary of State , I sought an audience of you , honourable Sir , in the hope that you would grant me permission to see him . '' `` If I do grant it , the interview must take place in the presence of the officer to whom his custody has been committed , '' replied Sir Thomas .