midnight
She had no idea of admitting what part actual fatigue can play in one 's perspective , neither would she have owned to nerves as the cause of her unnatural wakefulness ; nevertheless these were both factors in her almost painful alertness . `` At least now I have a chance to think , '' she temporized , `` and I wish I could solve the mystery of Sally Howland 's peculiar connection with Shirley Duncan . '' They were so unlike , so foreign in disposition and character ; not relatives , and Sally even disclaimed any previous acquaintance with the country girl . Then Sally 's attempt to forestall the midnight noises by taking the shunned room at the very foot of the dreaded attic stairs -- what could that mean ? Jane pondered feebly , and feeling just the least bit drowsy she left her place in the steamer chair to get a drink of water in the lavatory . It would not do to actually fall asleep `` at the switch . '' Voices from the end of the hall near Sally 's room forced their way into the corridor as she glided past , and the unmistakable tone of Shirley Duncan riveted Jane 's attention .