midnight
Two women who had been afflicted with lameness for years were fully restored to health , and they left their crutches in the church , where they can be seen by anyone . '' Her excitement was infectious ; the aged Delmia 's eyes also began to gleam with religious enthusiasm , while her trembling hand caused the crutch to keep up a soft tattoo on the floor . `` And guess why the Virgin answered their prayers , Delmia ? '' she went on in a hushed voice ; `` because they prayed in the church from midnight until daybreak . Nearly all the miracles that the Blessed Virgin has performed there have been for those who have denied themselves for her in this manner . The night is rough and she knows how old I am . Who can tell what she may do for me if I go out on a night like this to the church and pray to her ? ''