midnight
If indeed he occasionally did mutter an observation , it was generally of an irritable character , nor truly did he appear satisfied if anyone approached him , save Miriam , from whom alone he would accept the scanty viands which he ever appeared disinclined to touch . But his devoted niece , amid all her harrowing affliction , could ever spare to the protector of her youth a placid countenance , a watchful eye , a gentle voice , and a ready hand . Her religion and her virtue , the strength of her faith , and the inspiration of her innocence , supported this pure and hapless lady amid all her undeserved and unparalleled sorrows . It was long past midnight ; the young widow of Abner reposed upon a couch in a soft slumber . The amiable Beruna and the beautiful Bathsheba , the curtains drawn , watched the progress of the night . ` Shall I wake her ? ' said the beautiful Bathsheba .