midnight
`` The means of converting tin into silver , and copper into gold ; or rather , I may say , the discovery of the philosopher 's stone , for which the sages of past centuries have searched in vain , but which I firmly believe it has been reserved for me to find out . I shall then become the richest individual in Amsterdam , and I have resolved to employ my wealth in rebuilding the city . I purpose to lay the foundations with granite instead of wooden piles , on which it now stands ; to increase the width and depth of its canals , and double their present dimensions ; to erect a church in the centre which shall surpass that of Saint Peter 's or Saint Paul 's ; to make the inhabitants the most wealthy and healthy , the best and most contented people on the face of the globe . These are grand designs , you will allow , most noble stranger , for I perceive you are capable of appreciating them : these are sufficient to induce a man to burn the midnight oil , to spend his days in ceaselessly labouring at his allotted task . '' `` Perhaps you will be good enough to make haste and discover this philosopher 's stone , and then let me out at your street door ; for I am desperately hungry , and wish to find a hotel where I may obtain a supper and bed , in case I should not meet with Baron Stilkin , who landed for the express purpose of looking for one . '' `` Wait a few moments longer , my friend , '' said the alchemist , still stirring on . `` You would not surely have me throw away the labour of years to gratify your selfish object .