about midnight
So was the messenger with the promised papers , including a formal communication notifying to him that he was now a lieutenant-colonel . `` And to think that they have painted ` Major ' on those tin cases ! '' said Isobel regretfully , for no objection had been raised to her accompanying Godfrey , with whom she was seated in a reserved carriage . They reached Southampton about midnight , and on Godfrey presenting himself and asking when the boat sailed he was informed that this was uncertain , but probably within the next week . Then remembering all he had gone through that day , he swore as a man will , but Isobel rejoiced inwardly , oh ! how she rejoiced , though all she said was that it would give him time to complete his shopping . Save for the advancing shadow of separation and a constant stream of telegrams and telephone messages to and from his chiefs in London , which occupied many of the hours , these were very happy days , especially as in the end they spread themselves out to the original limit of his leave .