midnight
`` However , '' Count Hannibal continued , with an airy gesture , `` that is my affair . If you , M. de Montsoreau , feel inclined , in spite of the absence of my letters , to carry yours into effect , by all means do so -- after midnight of to-day . '' M. de Montsoreau breathed hard . `` And why , '' he asked , half sulkily and half ponderously , `` after midnight only , M. le Comte ? '' `` Merely that I may be clear of all suspicion of having lot or part in the matter , '' Count Hannibal answered pleasantly . `` After midnight of to-night by all means do as you please . Until midnight , by your leave , we will be quiet . ''