midnight
As I said , I can wait . I can endure the mingled torture and rapture of this sudden passion and make no sign , till my patience tires , and then -- then I will win you if I die for it ! '' He sprang up before she could speak a word in answer , and seizing his canvas again , exclaimed gayly : `` Now for the hues of morning and evening combined , to paint the radiance of this wicked soul of love that so enthralls me ! First , the raven-black of midnight for the hair , -- the lustre of the coldest , brightest stars for eyes , -- the blush-rose of early dawn for lips and cheeks . Ah ! How shall I make a real beginning of this marvel ? '' `` It will be difficult , I fear , '' said Ziska slowly , with a faint , cold smile ; `` and still more difficult , perchance , will be the end ! ''