midnight
At the close of the third act it had vanished , and he saw nothing more of it that evening . When the after-piece was over , for he sat it out , he walked quietly home , much refreshed . He had needed some relaxation , after many days of close and continuous labour . But awfully solemn was the face of good Miss Talbot , as she opened the door for him at midnight . Hugh took especial pains with his boots and the door-mat , but it was of no use : the austerity of her countenance would not relax in the least . So he took his candle and walked up-stairs to his room , saying only as he went -- being unable to think of anything else : `` Good night , Miss Talbot . '' But no response proceeded from the offended divinity of the place .