midnight
He himself gave me additional opportunity to make such observations , for since the evening on which I found him ill , or otherwise overcome , in the wood , he had taken an especial fancy to me , so that it seemed absolutely necessary for him to see me every day . To describe to you the whole peculiarity of this intercourse with the major , to tell you a great deal that seemed to confirm the judgment of the men , who boldly maintained that he had second-sight , and was in compact with the devil , would be superfluous , as you will soon have sufficient knowledge of the awful spirit that was destined to disturb the peace of my life . `` I was on guard at the castle , and there received a visit from my cousin , Captain von T -- , who had come with a young officer from Berlin to Potsdam . We were indulging in friendly converse over our wine , when , towards midnight , Major O'Malley entered . ` I thought to find you alone , lieutenant , ' said he , casting glances of displeasure at my guests , and he wished to depart at once . The captain then reminded him that they were old acquaintance , and at my request he consented to remain . '' ` Your wine , ' exclaimed O'Malley , as he tossed down a bumper , after his usual manner ; ` your wine , lieutenant , is the vilest stuff that ever tortured an honest fellow 's bowels .