midnight
They lived in Quebec for more than half that time ; then Mr. St. Vincent was abroad for two years , and Miss Violet went to the convent . Denise is a faithful Romanist , but she has always honored her master 's faith , -- perhaps because he has been so generous to hers . There is some tea on the kitchen stove keeping warm , she tells him with her good night , some biscuits and crackers , and a bottle of wine , if he likes better . Then he is left alone , and presently the great clock in the hall tells off slowly and reverently the midnight hour . Violet stirs and opens her eyes . There is a light , and Mr. Grandon is sitting here . What does it all mean ?