Midnight
`` Now hush , you simple craven , '' said the dame ; `` did you never hear , that when the need is highest the help is nighest ? We may find aid for you yet , and sooner than you are aware of . I am sure I would never have advised you to such a course , but only you had set heart and eye on pretty Mistress Marget , and less would not serve you -- and what could I do but advise you to cast your city-slough , and try your luck where folks find fortune ? '' `` Ay , ay -- I remember your counsel well , '' said Jenkin ; `` I was to be introduced to her by you when I was perfect in my gallantries , and as rich as the king ; and then she was to be surprised to find I was poor Jin Vin , that used to watch , from matin to curfew , for one glance of her eye ; and now , instead of that , she has set her soul on this Scottish sparrow-hawk of a lord that won my last tester , and be cursed to him ; and so I am bankrupt in love , fortune , and character , before I am out of my time , and all along of you , Mother Midnight . '' `` Do not call me out of my own name , my dear boy , Jin Vin , '' answered Ursula , in a tone betwixt rage and coaxing , -- `` do not ; because I am no saint , but a poor sinful woman , with no more patience than she needs , to carry her through a thousand crosses . And if I have done you wrong by evil counsel , I must mend it and put you right by good advice . And for the score of pieces that must be made up at settling-day , why , here is , in a good green purse , as much as will make that matter good ; and we will get old Crosspatch , the tailor , to take a long day for your clothes ; and -- '' `` Mother , are you serious ? ''