midnight
I had to keep silent . Clenching my teeth , I walked quickly into the drawing-room , but turned back at once and said : `` I beg you earnestly that there should be no more assemblies , plots , and meetings of conspirators in my house ! I only admit to my house those with whom I am acquainted , and let all your crew find another place to do it if they want to take up philanthropy . I ca n't allow people at midnight in my house to be shouting hurrah at successfully exploiting an hysterical woman like you ! '' My wife , pale and wringing her hands , took a rapid stride across the room , uttering a prolonged moan as though she had toothache . With a wave of my hand , I went into the drawing-room . I was choking with rage , and at the same time I was trembling with terror that I might not restrain myself , and that I might say or do something which I might regret all my life .