midnight
he said quietly . Sagan sprang to his feet . ` Yes , ' resumed the Duke , warming to his _ rôle _ . ` Yes , he acted under my orders , for the despatches were connected with the agreement I have within the last hour signed with England , and about which the first proposals were laid before me at midnight by the British Envoy during my visit to your Castle ! ' ` What ? ' shouted Sagan , as his house of cards fell about him . ` You lie , Gustave !