midnight
If the greatest luck attended Mariani 's errand and the greatest speed were made by the Duke once he received the letter , he could not reach Cesena in less than another eight hours . And another eight minutes , to reckon by the swift sinking of the sun would see the time appointed for my hanging . I thought of Joshua in that grim hour , and in a mood that approached the whimsical I envied him his gift . If I could have stayed the setting of the sun , and held it where it was till midnight , all might yet be well if Mariani had been diligent and Cesare swift . The key grating in the lock put an end to my vague musings , and reminded me of the fact that I had neglected to employ that last hour as would have become a good son of Mother Church . For an instant I believe that my heart turned me to thoughts of God , and sent up a prayer for mercy for my poor sinful soul . Then the door swung wide .