midnight
`` Not at all . I want it for myself alone . If it does not come before twelve I shall have no use for it . '' `` Then I will remain here until midnight , if necessary ; but it may not be necessary . '' `` And you shall set your own price upon your time , '' said the duke . `` Thanks , your grace ; I am happy to be able to accommodate you ; and would prefer to leave all other considerations to yourself , '' said the young man , very politely and -- politicly . Even while they spoke , a warning vibration of the wires was perceived , followed by the _ click , click , click _ , of the instrument .