midnight
He did not need to learn more . That rosy color , which has been observed in those asphyxiated by oxide of carbon , decided it . However , he questioned the maid . Nothing had occurred ; she had talked with the cook in the kitchen , who , near midnight , went to her room in the fifth story , and then she went to bed in a small room contiguous to that of her mistress . During the night she heard nothing ; in the morning she found her mistress in the state she mentioned , and immediately went for Monsieur Balzajette . Continuing his questions , Saniel asked her what Madame Dammauville did after the consultation with Monsieur Balzajette . `` She dined as usual , but less than usual , eating almost nothing ; then she received a visit from one of her friends , who remained only a few minutes , before starting on a voyage . ''