midnight
said Phillip questioningly , but a grave shake of the hoary head was the physician 's only reply . Mrs. Montgomery -LRB- dear good soul -RRB- had now arrived and her presence seemed to bring cheer into the house of gloom . At intervals the patient would watch her as she flitted noiselessly in and out unceasing in her labors of love , and a faint smile would light up his pallid face as if in recognition of such devotion . It was the hour preceding midnight and Mrs. Montgomery had been persuaded to take a few hours rest while Phillip Lawson took her place beside the bedside . Something in the wan face arrested the watcher 's attention and stooping closely down he saw that the man was trying to communicate something that was on his mind . `` Is it anything that I know of , '' cried Phillip in almost desperate tones ; `` anything that I can do for you ? '' Mr. Verne gazed wildly upon him , then tried to raise his hand , but he was unable for the task , and relapsed into his former state of unconsciousness .