twelve o'clock
Russell had scarcely read half a dozen lines after his cousin 's departure when a soft hand swept back the locks of hair on his forehead , and wiped away the heavy drops that moistened them . `` My son , you promised me you would not sit up late to-night . '' `` Well , mother , I have almost finished . Remember the nights are very short now , and twelve o'clock comes early . '' `` The better reason that you should not be up so late . My son , I am afraid you will ruin your health by this unremitting application . '' `` Why -- look at me .