midnight
It may have been rather reckless advice to a new runner , but I was feeling a mite reckless myself ; but , above all the grief and disappointments -LRB- for the disgrace of my fireman 's downfall was in a measure mine -RRB- arose the desire that Blackwings should not be disgraced ; such is the love of the engineer for his engine . '' The old engineer had shown much feeling , more than was usual for him to display , while talking about his engine , and the reporter was impressed very favorably . `` This has been most interesting to me , '' said the journalist ; `` and now I must leave you to your book , or to your bed , '' and then the two men shook hands again and parted . * * * * * It was almost midnight when a closed carriage stopped at the general office of the Burlington Company , and the man who had been representing _ The London Times _ stepped out . The Philosopher , who was still on duty , touched his cap and led the visitor to the private office of the general manager . `` By Jove , Watchem , '' said the railway man , advancing to meet his visitor , `` I had nearly given you up -- what success ? '' `` Well , '' said the great detective , removing his heavy coat , `` I have had a talk with Moran .