midnight
`` You can not tell how large a trouble may be started by a small politician , '' said he . `` At least , we will hear what he has to say . 'T was he that sought the meeting , not myself . '' Perhaps half an hour later , Mr. Calhoun 's old negro man ushered in this awaited guest , and we three found ourselves alone in one of those midnight conclaves which went on in Washington even then as they do to-day . Mr. Polk was serious as usual ; his indecisive features wearing the mask of solemnity , which with so many passed as wisdom . `` I have come , Mr. Calhoun , '' said he -- when the latter had assured him that my presence would entail no risk to him -- `` to talk over this Texas situation . '' `` Very well , '' said my chief .