Twelve o'clock
On the next day I fall ill and stop behind in a shepherd 's hut , and then take a short cut across the hills . I shall be down there before you will . Good-night ! '' Twelve o'clock was striking from the Cathedral bell-tower as the Gadfly looked in at the door of the great empty barn which had been thrown open as a lodging for the pilgrims . The floor was covered with clumsy figures , most of which were snoring lustily , and the air was insufferably close and foul . He drew back with a little shudder of repugnance ; it would be useless to attempt to sleep in there ; he would take a walk , and then find some shed or haystack which would , at least , be clean and quiet . It was a glorious night , with a great full moon gleaming in a purple sky .