midnight
In fairness , perhaps I ought to tell you , '' he added smilingly , `` that while I cheerfully consent to the proposed arrangement , you must not feel too much indebted to me , as I judge my consent is a mere formality . From the moment the secret of the locket was out , it had to be , I fancy . Why , bless me , if Edith had not been there to redeem her great-grandmother 's pledge , I really apprehend that Mrs. Leete 's loyalty to me would have suffered a severe strain . '' That evening the garden was bathed in moonlight , and till midnight Edith and I wandered to and fro there , trying to grow accustomed to our happiness . `` What should I have done if you had not cared for me ? '' she exclaimed . `` I was afraid you were not going to .