midnight
Cries , entreaties , and explanations , are all useless with such men as our guard is composed of . Her clothes are torn , and she is found rioting in disreputable company . The sergeant of the guard says , `` Being thus disagreeably caught , she must abide the penalty . It may teach you how to model your morals , '' he adds ; and straightway , at midnight , she is dragged to the guard-house , and in spite of her entreaties , locked up in a cell with the outcast women . `` Will you not hear me ? will you not allow an innocent woman to speak in her own behalf ? Do , I beg , I beseech , I implore you -- listen but for a minute -- render me justice , and save me from this last step of shame and disgrace , '' she appeals to the sergeant , as the cell door closes upon her .