midnight
`` Dying , '' replied the inspector ; `` expected to go at any moment . But the doctor tells me that she may -- it 's just possible -- recover consciousness before the end ; and there 's a bare chance '' ... `` I see , '' said Sowerby eagerly ; `` of course she must know ! '' The two hastened to Palace Mansions . Despite the lateness of the hour , Whitehall was thronged with vehicles , and all the glitter and noise of midnight London surrounded them . `` It only seems like yesterday evening , '' said Dunbar , as they mounted the stair of Palace Mansions , `` that I came here to take charge of the case . Damme ! it 's been the most exciting I 've ever handled , and it 's certainly the most disappointing . ''