midnight
` It is I , Humphrey Ratcliffe . I have an errand to Mistress Gifford . ' ` She is sick , and ca n't hear aught to-night . It is near midnight . Go your way , and return in the morning , Master Ratcliffe . ' Then there was a pause , the woman 's head was withdrawn , and Humphrey 's ear , quickened by love , heard Mary 's voice in pathetic pleading . Presently the head re-appeared .