midnight
But his heart was high and resolute , and he did not fear failure yet . So the desperate race flew on . Their feet struck up the powdery snow , their breath smoked into the sharp clear air , and they were gone before the air was cleared of snow and vapour . Now and then Christian glanced up to judge , by the rising of the stars , of the coming of midnight . So long -- so long ! White Fell held on without slack . She , it was evident , with confidence in her speed proving matchless , as resolute to outrun her pursuer as he to endure till midnight and fulfil his purpose .