midnight
but I could destroy the only evidence against it , '' said the other , in a deep , guttural voice . `` I could tear out of the parish registry the only leaf that could betray you ; and it was for that I came back here ; and it was for that I 'm now here . And I did do it . I broke into the vestry of the chapel at midnight , and I tore out the page , and I have it here , in my hand , this minute . There was a copy of this same paper at the college at Louvain , but I stole that , too ; for I went as porter there , just to get an opportunity to take it , -- that one I destroyed . '' `` But whence this interest in my fortunes ? '' said D'Esmonde , half proudly , for he was still slow to believe all that he heard .