midnight
answered the boy , and turning within Arden 's clasp , began to babble of London streets and the Triple Tun . The claw-like hands had dragged themselves from Nevil 's hold , and the spirit could be no longer caught by the voice of authority , but wandered where it would . The men about him waited long and vainly for some turn of the tide . It drew towards midnight , and Robin yet babbled of all things under the sun saving only of a man that had left England now three years agone . At last Nevil arose , spoke a few words to Arden , who nodded assent ; then , with Powell , moved to the door . `` When will this friar return ? '' he asked , as they crossed the threshold .