midnight
Mr. Clare went out to the hall to listen , or Rachel stole up to the extemporary nursery to consult Nurse Jones , whom she found very gruff at having been turned out in favour of the stranger maid . It was a strange time of suspense . Alick made Rachel lie on the sofa , and she almost heard the beating of her own heart ; he sat by her , trying to seem to read , and his uncle stood by the open window , where the tinkle of a sheep bell came softly in from the meadows , and now and then the hoot of the owl round the church tower made the watchers start . To watch that calm and earnest face was their great help in that hour of alarm ; those sightless eyes , and broad , upraised spiritual brow seemed so replete with steadfast trust and peace , that the very sight was soothing and supporting to the young husband and wife , and when the long strokes of twelve resounded from the church tower , Mr. Clare , turning towards them , began in his full , musical voice to repeat Bishop Ken 's noble midnight hymn -- `` My God , now I from sleep awake , The sole possession of me take ; From midnight terrors me secure , And guard my soul from thoughts impure . '' To Rachel , who had so often heard that hour strike amid a tumult of midnight miseries , there was something in these words inexpressibly gentle and soothing ; the tears sprang into her eyes , as if she had found the spell to chase the grisly phantoms , and she clasped her husband 's hand , as though to communicate her comfort . `` Oh may I always ready stand , With my lamp burning in my hand ; May I in sight of Heaven rejoice , Whene'er I hear the Bridegroom 's voice . '' Mr. Clare had just repeated this verse , when he paused , saying , `` They are coming down , '' and moved quickly to meet them in the hall .