midnight
`` The fact is , '' he said , simply , `` it is a case of gross neglect . The child has evidently been in a weakly condition for some time past , and therefore is an easy prey to any disease that may be lurking about . She was naturally strong -- I can see that -- and had I been called in when the symptoms first developed themselves , I could have cured her . The nurse tells me she dared not enter the mother 's room to disturb her after midnight , otherwise she would have called her to see the child -- it is unfortunate , for now I can do nothing . '' I listened like one in a dream . Not even old Assunta dared to enter her mistress 's room after midnight -- no ! not though the child might be seriously ill and suffering .