midnight
`` He is a prisoner , '' returned the priest ; `` and if you would learn more concerning him , repair , without delay , to Pemaquid , where his lieutenant waits your arrival . '' Father Gilbert turned away , as he finished speaking ; and Stanhope retraced his steps to the boat , musing with deep interest on the intelligence he had received . He rowed rapidly back to his vessel ; and , weighing anchor , sailed for the bay of Pemaquid , impatient to rejoin De Valette , and learn the particulars of La Tour 's capture . The midnight pass 'd -- and to the massy door , A light step came -- it paused -- it moved once more ; Slow turns the grating bolt and sullen key . LORD BYRON . La Tour endured the first days of confinement with more patience than could have been expected from his irascible disposition ; his mind was continually excited by hopes of speedy release , and plans of future vengeance . D'Aulney 's visit to him was not repeated , and his solitude remained unbroken , except by the person who brought him food , and who generally performed his office in perfect silence .