midnight
The huge desolation of the marshes stretched away to the horizon and the border of the desert . Bitterns stood by the stagnant pools and jackals skulked through the low bushes ; but there was no sign of the caravan of the wise men , far or near . At the edge of the terrace he saw a little cairn of broken bricks , and under them a piece of parchment . He caught it up and read : `` We have waited past the midnight , and can delay no longer . We go to find the King . Follow us across the desert . '' Artaban sat down upon the ground and covered his head in despair .