nearly ten o'clock
that was thus unconsciously preparing all things for the snake that even now -- ` her crest brightening with hope ' was couchant by her children 's cradle . Unhappy children ! that on this quiet summer-night were to be driven out upon the main sea of a stormy and wicked world from the quiet haven of their father 's castle , and had already on this earth parted for ever from their angelic mother ! -- `` Lady Walladmor fell asleep : and , when she next awoke , the room was gloomy with dusk : indeed it was all but dark ; for it must have been nearly ten o'clock . She rang the bell : and the housekeeper , who happened to be passing the door , answered it . '' ` Oh , is that you , Mrs. Howel ? ' said her ladyship : ` send candles ; and tell lady Charlotte that she may come up , if she is not gone to bed . '